Newcastle United should look to bolster their midfield options in January and Sevilla enforcer Steven N’Zonzi could be a great target for them to pursue.
Rafael Benitez’s side could be given a good transfer kitty when the window re-opens if the club’s takeover goes through in time and they need to strengthen the centre of the pitch.
Mikel Merino, Jonjo Shelvey and Isaac Hayden are the three standout Magpies midfielders, but there is not much quality beyond them and it leaves them short of options.
Benitez needs to bring in a top quality midfielder to freshen up his squad and an admission from N’Zonzi should grab his attention.
The Mirror report in its print edition (Page 47, 13 November) that he has alerted suitors in England to his situation after revealing his love for the Premier League.
“I love the Premier League. It’s where I started at a good level. I had a great time there. I don’t know what’s going to happen in the future,” N’Zonzi said.
The 28-year-old previously had spells in England with Blackburn and Stoke, but is now a key player for Spanish outfit Sevilla.
He has become a mainstay for the La Liga club and has already made 14 appearances across all competitions this season.
N’Zonzi is renowned for being a tough tackler and is also very efficient in possession, something that would please the Newcastle fans.
The Magpies need to react quickly to snap up the France international ahead of any potential Premier League rivals as he could be a stunning pick-up.
N’Zonzi is in the prime of his career and it could take a serious investment to bring him to the North East, but a deal would surely be on the cards if the players wants the move.