Howe could land NUFC's new Waddle as PIF plot bid for "unbelievable" 110-goal machine - opinion

Now that they are seemingly out of trouble, Newcastle United can look to level up their squad in a bid to achieve a higher Premier League finish next season.

And, according to reports, the Magpies could look to kickstart this gradual rebuild with the acquisition of the 110-goal machine that is Christian Eriksen.

Indeed, the Northern Echo claim Eddie Howe’s side have identified the Danish midfield maestro as one of their primary targets in the summer transfer window.

Having returned to action in what has been one of the greatest feel-good stories in recent football history, Eriksen signed a short-term deal when he agreed to join Brentford in January.

And whilst Bees boss Thomas Frank would like Eriksen to join on a permanent basis, Brentford face a tough challenge to hold onto him.

With one goal and one assist in five Premier League appearances, Eriksen’s return to England’s top-flight has been a success thus far.

The 30-year-old has also been in goalscoring form following his return to the international stage, having scored in back-to-back games for Denmark.

His performances this season have cast doubters – who thought he was too fragile for top-flight football – aside – with his four consecutive 90-minute appearances demonstrating his emerging return back to his best.

And, despite Newcastle’s rise to presumed safety, they do need to work on their assertiveness in midfield, as well as their goal-scoring acumen, which has only seen the Magpies net 34 goals this season.

Eriksen – who has been described by Thomas Frank as “unbelievable” – can offer experience in both of those aspects, with his veteran footballing status sure to help Newcastle reach that next level.

With his contract set to expire at the end of the season,