Newcastle United work on deals to sign two proven defenders - expert
Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe will look to sign new centre-backs this summer after injury issues have caused problems at St James' Park.
Alan Hutton, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, stated that Howe will be looking for a consistently available option in defence.
With Sven Botman, Fabian Schar and Jamaal Lascelles having suffered injury blows, Hutton thinks Newcastle need to strengthen.
Football Insider sources previously revealed that Howe is targeting free transfers with a proven top-flight defender at the top of their list.
Newcastle United to target new centre-back deals this summer
Given the injury issues the squad has suffered this season, reinforcements may be required throughout the team, not just in defence.
However, with that position becoming a priority, Hutton explained that the team must strengthen to keep progressing forward.
"They've had injuries at centre-back as well, that's not helped them," he told Football Insider.
"The likes of Lascelles, Schar and Botman [have been missing]. I think they have got players in there that are more than capable.
"But he maybe just feels long-term that he needs somebody who can regularly churn out games week in, week out.
"From what I know, that's what he's looking at for the future.
"I think you always have to strengthen, you can never stand still, especially if you're targeting the top four, you need to keep moving forward.
"I'm sure there are other areas they will look to strengthen, but that's one where they've had problems."
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