This loan target would transform the Newcastle United midfield

Newcastle United could add a new dimension to their midfield with this Leicester City player.

On the current roster, Newcastle United have a variety of options in the central midfield. They have elite passing from a guy like Jonjo Shelvey, a high work rate from Matty Longstaff, and a more defensive approach from Isaac Hayden. But, none of the club’s current midfielders bring the skill set of a player on their radar this month.

Newcastle United have been rumored to have interest in Leicester City’s Hamza Choudhury. The 23-year-old is a defensive-minded player that’s known for his physical tackling. While Hayden is the best midfielder defensively on the roster, the last time the Magpies had a true intimidating presence in the middle of the park was likely the late Cheick Tiote.

Choudhury, in addition to being a physical defensive player, turns in a high work rate and is no slouch when it comes to passing. If he arrives at St. James’ Park this month, you can plug him in next to Hayden to shut down opposing attacks, or to help complement Shelvey or one of the Longstaff brothers. A high-energy tandem of Choudhury and the younger Longstaff would be fun to watch and tough to deal with for their opponents.

Newcastle supporters may have less than fond memories of Choudhury from last season. He injured Matt Ritchie in a rough tackle and scored his lone goal of the campaign in a 3-0 win later in the season, when he was booed at St. James’ Park for the Ritchie tackle.

According to Leicestershire Live, Brendan Rodgers seems to prefer to sell Choudhury than loan him out. But, a loan-to-buy deal could make sense for both sides. Newcastle United would be wise to continue pursuing the English midfielder enforcer.