Green light for spending spree ahead of 'busy' summer

CENTRE-BACK A HIGH PRIORITY

- By LEE RYDER

NEWCASTLE United's search for a new centre-back appears to be in full swing as the countdown to the summer transfer window ticks down.

The Journal understands that scouts have been scouring Europe and the Premier League to nail down targets ahead of what is expected to be a “busy” window according to insiders.

The urgency levels on recruitment have been notched up in the last month after the return of European football was rubber-stamped and concerns over squad depth were noted.

The summer window will also swing open early this year with an extra trading period between June 1 and June 10 meaning the Magpies may look to capitalise on the situation. Head coach Eddie Howe has always stated his willingness to get deals done early in order to bed stars into his squad in good time for pre-season.