Newcastle now exploring move to sign De Vrij; he could replace Schar

Newcastle United are now reportedly exploring a move to sign an experienced Champions League centre-back, who could replace the injured Fabian Schar.

Howe urges Newcastle not to “underestimate” Wolves

Compared to the challenge of squaring off against Manchester City in midweek, Newcastle should be far more confident against Wolverhampton Wanderers this Sunday.

The Premier League‘s bottom side have enjoyed their best form of the campaign recently, but that would be no excuse for the Magpies if they failed to come away with all three points.

Eddie Howe chose to praise opposing manager Rob Edwards whilst claiming that his side will not “underestimate” anyone in this league. He told reporters: “They’re definitely in a better place. Rob is a very good manager, he’s come in and has given them a clear way of playing and structure. I think they’re playing with freedom.

“Statistically they’ve been a bit of an outlier, they’ve been unlucky to get more points. We don’t underestimate anyone and have to make sure mentally we’re in our best place.”

The Newcastle boss also confirmed that Schar’s surgery was a success, although Newcastle will now be without yet another defender for a number of weeks.

The Swiss centre-back joins Tino Livramento in the treatment room and deals Newcastle a defensive problem that they must look to solve before the end of the month.

Links have already emerged regarding Lecce’s Tiago Gabriel, but those at St James’ Park may be looking for a more experienced option following Schar’s injury.

According to Football Insider, Newcastle are now exploring a move to sign Stefan de Vrij from Inter Milan this month following the collapse of his attempted transfer to Saudi Arabia.

Newcastle exploring move to sign De Vrij

If Newcastle are looking for experience, then De Vrij is their man. The Inter Milan centre-back has played on the biggest stages, including the Champions League final, and is exactly the type of player who could lead the turnaround at St James’ Park this season.

At 33 years old, there may be a concern that the Dutchman is past his best, especially since he’s played just eight times this season. Yet, for the right price, his experience could prove to be invaluable for Howe.

The other concern should centre around his potential wage demands. He’s just missed out on a Saudi pay-day and currently earns around £117,000-a-week at the San Siro. That would make him one of Newcastle’s top earners.

Whether he’s at the level to earn his place on that list is the question that Newcastle must ask themselves.