Former Magpie urges Newcastle to pursue Celtic, Norway star this summer

The primary focus for Newcastle United is Premier League survival. With a game in hand over their relegation rivals, the Magpies can create a six-point cushion between themselves and 18th-placed Fulham, while also temporarily climbing up the table to 15th.

For that reason, a win against West Brom tomorrow is critical in seeing the light at the end of the top flight tunnel. While that is the immediate objective, other tasks for Newcastle United involve planning for the future in terms of transfers.

According to a new report from the Chronicle, one transfer suggestion has been made by former Newcastle United midfielder Lee Clark. He is encouraging Newcastle United to look north of the border and pursue Celtic star Kristoffer Ajer.

The Norwegian defender, who has been linked with AC Milan on multiple occasions, is in the negotiation phase for a new contract with the Scottish giants, but talks have reportedly stalled between both parties.

Newcastle United would certainly benefit from Ajer’s services if he leaves Celtic.

Newcastle United need to upgrade their back line this summer. Adding more quality in defense is an absolute must if the Magpies aim to avoid another relegation battle. Since their journey back in the Premier League back in 2017, the Toon have not enjoyed a positive goal differential.

In the last two seasons with Steve Bruce in charge, the defense has conceded far too many goals. In the central role, Federico Fernandez has been the most reliable defender for Newcastle United, and midfielder Isaac Hayden has stepped in at times and performed better than both Jamaal Lascelles and Fabian Schar.

Celtic’s Ajer is a defender who would walk into the starting lineup for Newcastle United. With a 6’5 frame, Ajer has been an aggressive force and a dangerous aerial presence for Celtic over the last four seasons. Having been involved in three of the Hoops’ title-winning seasons, Ajer has a winning mentality, which is much needed in the Magpies’ dressing room.

The 22-year-old also has 18 Europa League games under his belt, which is great experience for a young player to learn from and carry over into domestic competitions. Ajer can also be a versatile player as he has proven to be effective in the role of a right-back on a few occasions, but he is primarily known for his composure and timely tackles in the middle.

It remains to be seen what Ajer will decide to do at the end of the season, but Clark is spot on when he argues that the defender would be a great addition to Newcastle United. Seeing that Ajer still has one year left on his contract, it will also be interesting to see what asking price Celtic set for the Norwegian if he wishes to leave.