Rafa Benitez wants Harry Maguire to anchor Newcastle’s return to the Premier League.
According to a report in The Sun the £20m rated Hull defender is top of Newcastle’s wish list should they win promotion.
Despite some doubts about the future of Benitez Newcastle are preparing an end of season bid for Maguire who has been one of the successes of Hull’s season.
Everton and Chelsea have also been credited with an interest in Macguire who joined Hull from Sheffield United three years ago in a £2.5m deal.
Having sold Robert Snodgrass and Jake Livermore in January Hull have no qualms about being viewed as a selling club and will cash in on Maguire when the season ends regardless of whether they are relegated or not.
Newcastle are already planning for life back in the top tier and want to get key deals completed nice and early to give them time to bed in before the first Premier League fixtures.