Newcastle have sent scouts to watch the ‘impressive’ much-wanted Sunderland star

Newcastle United have carried out a scouting mission on a ‘stunning’ Sunderland star ahead of the January transfer window, according to a report.

Newcastle are looking to sign a defender

Back in November, Alan Shearer gave an overview of the positions he believes Newcastle need to strengthen this winter. saying: “I would definitely target a centre-forward, a right-forward and probably a centre-half. These are the three priority positions.”

Since then, the Magpies have stepped up their interest in a number of centre-backs, with the Lens. Abdukodir Khusanov becoming his main target in this area of ​​the pitch, in light of his impressive performances in Ligue 1 this season.

Eric Garcia has also emerged as a target for Eddie Howewith Barcelona willing to let the defender leave in January if a potential suitor is willing to pay a fee of around €25m (£21m) for his services.

related

Newcastle United are now leading the race to sign the £30m ‘special talent’

The Magpies have their sights set on a new winger.

Newcastle are eyeing a number of player options from across the continent, but there are now indications they could make a move for a player much closer to home, much to the displeasure of their local rivals.

According to a report from The Boot Room, the Magpies are one of a number who have scouted Sunderland. Daniel Ballardbut there will be significant competition for his signature.

Wolverhampton Wanderers are now pushing to sign the centre-back, while Aston Villa, Brighton & Hove Albion, Crystal Palace and Fulham have also carried out scouting missions, showing just how impressive his performances have been so far at the time of this season.

As such, it may be difficult to win the race for Ballard’s signature, and the rivalry with Sunderland will certainly do Newcastle no favors when potentially entering transfer negotiations.

Ballard impressive for Black Cats

Sunderland are pushing for promotion back to the Premier League and Ballard has become a major player, especially in the last two months, cementing itself as a regular starter and even scoring a goal in a 3-2 win against Swansea City.

praised described as “impressive” by journalist Josh Bunting, it’s clear to see why so many top-flight clubs are keen to sign the 25-year-old, but a move to St. James’ Park seems an unlikely scenario, given the circumstances.

It would be extremely unusual for Sunderland to sanction Ballard to join their arch-rivals, especially when they are in a promotion race and there are plenty of other interested parties they could sell him to.

As such, Newcastle may be better off prioritizing the signing of more realistic targets, such as Khusanov or Garcia, especially given that the latter player will be able to leave Barcelona in January, which will make negotiations much easier.