Jamaal Lascelles was chosen as Newcastle United’s player of the season in the last campaign as he helped his side in finishing in the top half of the table. He had a fantastic season at the back and formed a formidable partnership with Florian Lejeune. On the back of such performances, the player has garnered a huge amount of interest in the transfer market and was recently subjected to a bid from West Ham United which was said to be around £20m, rising to £25m.
However, the Magpies are standing firm in their stance and are not letting their club captain go. At just 24, he has become the leader of his side and has a commanding presence at the back. The Hammers had the joint worst defensive record last season in the league and no wonder they are looking to add some quality centre-backs in their squad. They have already acquired the highly rated French centre-half Issa Diop. However, Pellegrini seems keen to bring in more solid options.
Lascelles has represented England at various youth levels and there was a slight glimmer of hope that he could be picked up for England’s squad for the World Cup given the season he had but Gareth Southgate went for players who he has already tested before in the qualifiers and friendlies.
With The Toons not keen on selling him, we look at three possible alternatives the East London outfit can go after.
Alfie Mawson
The Swansea City defender was one of the standout players for the Swans as they suffered the heartbreak of relegation. After going down, it is expected that the player will part ways with the club and he could be available on a cut-price deal.
Ben Gibson
The Middlesbrough defender has been a leader at the back for the Teessiders for quite a while now. He has been with them since 2011 and now is the right time for him to make a move towards bigger challenges as he is too good a player to be playing in the second division. The player has been linked with various Premier League clubs including West Ham.
Read More: West Ham United Youngster Gets Ready For Hull City Loan Stint: Good Move For All Involved?
Harry Maguire
Maguire’s stature has really gone up since his performance for England in the World Cup. Maguire played every minute of the Premier League for Leicester City last season and this can turn out to be a massive coup for Pellegrini if he manages to lure in the England international.
