Newcastle ready defender move

Newcastle United are reportedly set to move for Liverpool right-back Glen Johnson with Alan Pardew hoping to snare the England international over the summer.

The former Chelsea and Portsmouth defender has had his fair share of critics in recent months despite an improvement in form from the 27-year-old.

Fans of the club have forecasted that Martin Kelly is ready to become a predominant member of the starting XI, should manager Kenny Dalglish opt to part with Johnson.

Magpies boss Alan Pardew is reportedly eager to bring in a replacement for Danny Simpson, after it had emerged the former Manchester United trainee was unlikely to extend his stay at the Sports Direct Arena.

The 25-year-old’s contract is set to expire in 2013, but Pardew may consider selling the defender at the end of the season rather than allow him to go on a free.

And it is believed a fee of around £10m will be enough to convince Dalglish to part ways with Johnson, who has also shown an interest in Mauricio Isla of Udinese in recent months.

Should the opportunity arise to bring Johnson to Newcastle, Pardew would be foolhardy to turn down the chance to sign the England international. Despite his weaknesses, the defender has the experience at both club and national level to really bolster the Magpies defence.

If Liverpool are keen to sell, which after seeing Kelly promoted to the first-team under Dalglish suggest they may be willing to listen to offers, then the £10m that could be bought in may well improve the current squad that has been assembled at Anfield. 

Full Story: Footy Bunker

Comments

[Lyle]

What a load of tosh !