Newcastle United are interested in signing powerhouse defender Jakub Jugas from Czech side Slavia Prague, according to the Sunday People.
The newspaper claims that Magpies scouts have monitored the 25-year-old in the last three matches and are confident he can be a success in the Premier League due to his “power and presence”.
It is understood that Rafael Benitez is planning to land his signature in the January transfer window for just £2million.
The report details that Newcastle could face competition from the Italian and German leagues for his signature.
Good move for Newcastle?
Jugas is recognised for being a powerful central defender and is someone that has the physicality to deal with the Premier League, but it would be a bizarre signing for Newcastle.
They already have Jamaal Lascelles and Ciaran Clark impressing in the centre of defence, while Florian Lejeune and Chancel Mbemba are also in contention.
Benitez should look to improve the squad in January and a new centre-back shouldn’t be a priority, with the attacking areas a position that should be under the spotlight more.
Jugas is carving out a successful career in his homeland Czech Republic, but the fact he is yet to make a move suggests he wouldn’t make too much of a difference.
This Is Futbol rating: 3/10
Likely to happen?
Benitez is lining up a move for Jugas in the New Year and has stressed his desire to improve his squad on several occasions.
The club’s extensive scouting mission also suggests their strong interest in the no-nonsense defender as they look to bolster their options.
However, he only moved to Slavia Prague in the summer and is under contract with them until 2020.
There is also the possibility of competition from European leagues and that could prove to be a major stumbling block.
This Is Futbol rating 5/10