Defenders could well be on the agenda for Newcastle United this summer.
Indeed, the signing of a new centre-back is believed to have been on the cards last summer but Newcastle had to change their plans due to FFP constraints.
Instead, the club strengthened in midfield, on the wing and at full-back, albeit the only signing to have truly worked out thus far has been the excellent Tino Livramento.
Lewis Hall is not yet deemed ready enough for regular action in the Premier League, while Sandro Tonali will not play again until into next season. Harvey Barnes, meanwhile, has endured freakish injury problems.
So then, a new defender could be sought this summer. Sven Botman, of course, will miss a significant period of time after knee surgery but plans to strengthen there were reportedly already drawn up.
One player to have been linked with a move to St James’ Park is Fulham’s Tosin Adarabioyo.
It seems, however, that the west London club have other ideas.
Tosin Adarabioyo: Latest on Newcastle transfer target
According to the Evening Standard, the Cottagers are preparing a bumper new contract for the 26-year-old.
Adarabioyo, as it stands, will be a free agent next summer should he not pen a new deal with the club and is also thought to be attracting interest from the likes of Liverpool and Tottenham.
Hailed as a “special player” by manager Marco Silva, the report adds that the former Manchester City youngster is simply focusing on his football between now and the end of the season.
Tosin Adarabioyo: Newcastle face fight to sign defender
Given the level of interest in Adarabioyo, it may be difficult to sign him this summer.
Though Botman’s absence perhaps offers more chances of regular game time, the fact Newcastle look unlikely to be playing European football next season could complicate matters.
Liverpool and Spurs will almost certainly be able to offer that, perhaps making them a more appealing destination.
With Fulham seemingly not giving up hope on extending his stay there, it looks like a real battle for the player’s services.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
