Newcastle eyeing move for international defender – report
By Derek Smithson
Newcastle are eyeing a move for Fenerbahce defender Martin Skrtel, according to a report.
Turkish publication FotoMac claim that the Magpies are considering a swoop for the 32-year-old this summer
It is understood that manager Rafael Benitez is keen on the deal after previously working with the centre-back during his time at Liverpool.
The report details that Swansea and Celtic have been interested in the Slovakia international, who would cost around £4.8million to sign.
Skrtel is a highly experienced defender that has racked up 88 international caps for his nation and is the captain of Slovakia.
The defender is currently playing in Turkey with Fenerbahce and made 49 appearances across all competitions last season, including playing seven times in the Europa League.
He has vast Premier League experience under his belt from his time at Anfield, where he made 320 appearances for the Merseyside club.
Football Insider verdict:
Benitez is looking to bolster his squad this summer and bringing Skrtel to St James’ Park would be a great move. The 32-year-old would be an upgrade on the current Newcastle centre-backs and is experience would help the likes of Jamaal Lascelles and Ciaran Clark improve. Skrtel is still at a good age and may feel he has unfinished business in the Premier League. The Slovakian became a fan favourite during his time to Liverpool due to his no-nonsense defending, but he also has the footballing brain needs in the top flight. Skrtel definitely fits the mould of a player experienced in English football that could force his way straight into the Magpies starting line-up.
In other Newcastle transfer news, they are closing in on a £17.5million-rated Champions League ace.
We’ve launched a << BREAKING NEWS FEED>> exclusively for your club. ‘Like Us’ on Facebook by clicking here if you want 24/7 updates on all Newcastle breaking news.