Newcastle make first contact for league-winning centre-back – Value has shot up over past year

Now very close to signing Sandro Tonali from AC Milan, Newcastle United could move onto signing a centre-back next.

That’s what Foot Mercato in France are reporting, claiming the Magpies have turned their attention to the Eredivisie as their next hunting ground.

The man of interest for Newcastle is David Hancko, who is currently contracted to Feyenoord, having signed for the Dutch side last summer from Slavia Prague.

He cost the Eredivisie side €6m, but his market value, at least on Transfermarkt, is now €25m, suggesting he could be costly for Eddie Howe’s side.

The Slovakian defender is protected by a contract at Feyenoord until 2026, and following a very full season of 45 games for his new side, completed with a league title, there might be some reluctance from Arne Slot’s side.

Foot Mercato explain that alongside names such as Théo Hernández and Federico Chiesa, Newcastle have ‘taken information’ about Hancko.

Therefore, it’s worth keeping an eye on in the coming days and weeks, just in case it goes a bit further than an initial contact.