Newcastle United boss Rafael Benitez is seeking a reunion with Fenerbahce defender Martin Skrtel as the he attempts to lure him to the club, according to A Spor.
The Turkish sports website reports that the Magpies manager wants to take his former centre back – who stands at 6’2″ (source: Transfermarkt) – to St James’ Park this summer, with the 33-year-old having just one year left on his contract at the Super Lig club.
It is stated Newcastle officials will be flying out to Turkey in a bid to push for a deal to sign the Slovakian international, with Skrtel, who came under fire from fans at the Turkish club for his performances, being made available as Fenerbahce attempt to offload him from their wage bill.
Good move for Newcastle?
Fenerbahce fans have critised the 97 capped international’s performances this season, as he endured a disappointing season in Turkey throughout the 2017/2018 campaign.
Having previously played for Liverpool under Benitez in the Premier League, Skrtel has the much needed experience to provide stability in Newcastle’s back four as they aim to improve upon their top ten finish last season.
He will relish the chance to join forces with Benitez again, and make a comeback in the Premier League where he made his name.
This is Futbol rating: 7/10
Likely to happen?
With the defender unhappy in Turkey and Benitez eager for a reunion, the chance of a move happening may have just increased.
Other clubs may come sniffing, but the Newcastle boss has the edge in having worked with Skrtel before, and will use this to his advantage.
Skrtel undoubtedly would not turn down the opportunity to join a top ten Premier League club, and would ideally want to play out the rest of his career under a manager who knows him best.
This is Futbol rating: 8/10