OPINION
Newcastle should try and secure a move for Liverpool wide man Lazar Markovic after Jurgen Klopp confirmed that he is available this summer.
The 23-year-old has failed to make a name for himself since he moved to Anfield and could end his disappointing spell with the Premier League giants.
The Serbia international made the move to the Merseyside club in 2014 for £20million and has since been sent out on loan three times.
Liverpool boss Klopp has revealed that they are willing to negotiate a deal for Markovic’s departure and that he is in great shape.
“With Lazar, it’s no secret that if he finds a club then we will negotiate. It was like this last year too,” Klopp told the Liverpool Echo. “He’s a really good player. I like him as a person.
“He’s now fit and another one who is in the best shape since I’ve known him. Before he had problems with his groin but now he’s good. There will be a club out there who needs him.”
Newcastle should definitely consider making a swoop for Markovic in the summer and a potential deal is realistic.
Rafael Benitez has begun making some impressive signings in the window, but may need a couple more to ensure that the Magpies can steer clear of a relegation battle on their return to the Premier League.
They have welcomed England Under-21 international Jacob Murphy from Norwich and he has helped bolster the options in the wide area alongside Matt Ritchie, Christian Atsu and Rolando Aarons.
However, Newcastle still seem a little light in that position and the capture of Markovic would give them another dimension.
The Liverpool man spent the second half of last season on loan at Hull where he impressed despite their relegation.
He showed that he has the qualities to cut it in the English top flight and managed to score two goals in his 14 games.
Markovic has struggled to deal with the price tag following his move to Anfield, but is still developing at 23 and Newcastle should allow that to continue at St James Park.
The right winger has blistering speed and a great work-rate, something that should help him become a fan favourite in the North East.