TEAMtalk have reported that Newcastle United are one of multiple Premier League clubs targeting Blackburn Rovers captain Darragh Lenihan on a free transfer.
The other teams reportedly interested are Leeds United, Aston Villa, Wolves and Everton.
His contract expires this summer, but the Irish centre-back would consider a new deal should Blackburn get promoted this season per the same TEAMtalk report. He’s had a very good campaign so far, with Rovers sitting second in the Championship.
Furthermore, the report states that Lenihan is looking to make the stepup to the Premier League next season. Blackburn currently are four points ahead of Bournemouth who have a game in hand. But their form has mostly been consistent as of late.
Seeing names they’ve been linked with in January, Newcastle would hope to do better than Lenihan this summer
The speculation around Lenihan is an interesting one. If Newcastle were to get relegated this season, I would say he would be a logcial signing at the back. However, from the report the Irish defender wants to play in the Premier League.
Should the Magpies stay up and avoid the drop, they really should look elswhere. They’ve been linked with Sven Botman and Diego Carlos this January. Just think of who they could be linked with in the summer.
The two previously mentioned defenders both play for top sides in Europe. Meanwhile Newcastle are in a relegation battle. Both players were keen, demonstrating the pull Newcastle has with Premier League football.
The highest level Lenihan has played at so far is the Championship. Going forward, the Magpies will want to recruit players with top level experience.
Overall, it seems unlikely Lenihan will make the move to Tyneside. Should they get relegated, the defender wants to take the next step up and play in the top flight. Should they stay up, they will surely look elsewhere for better defensive options.
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