Newcastle are expected to undergo a huge change in the summer as Rafa Benitez looks to bring his squad up to Premier League standard.
One of the main problem areas his side had in the Championship was at the centre of defence and a move for Manchester United’s Chris Smalling could be exactly what the Magpies are in need of.
The Sun have reported that West Brom and West Ham are both leading the race to sign the 27-year-old, who is currently in Jose Mourinho’s bad books at Old Trafford following a severe drop in form.
The two mid-table Premier League sides are teams that the Magpies can easily compete with on financial terms and also hold a similar, if not better, reputation than them.
Smalling has struggled with injuries at United and his recovery has been “too cautious” according to Mourinho, who hasn’t held back in his criticism of his players this season.
Even though the centre-back isn’t the most highly rated of players, he would definitely be an upgrade on what Benitez currently has at his disposal.
While Jamaal Lascelles and Ciaran Clark struck up a decent partnership in the second-tier, it remains to be seen if they can step up to the mark in the Premier League. Chancel Mbemba and Grant Hanley aren’t exactly the most relied-upon back-up options either.
Smalling has a huge amount of top-flight and international experience, and at the age of 27, he is expected to be hitting the peak of his career any time now.
The ex-Fulham man has played 242 times in all competitions for Man United and has two league titles under his belt.
He’s good in the air, decent with his feet and when in full pelt, he can keep up with some of the country’s quickest attackers.
The 30-times England international will probably set eyes rolling because of his lack of form at Old Trafford, but if you look at Jonny Evans’ move to West Brom, you will notice how under-performers at top six sides can prove to be invaluable at clubs lower in the standings.
Benitez needs more than just one big singing in the transfer window but Smalling should be one of his top priorities if he wants to help the Toon achieve their ambitions.