Manchester United should hijack Newcastle transfer to solve centre-back problem

Newcastle United may have all the riches their little hearts could ever desire but, at this point, they are still just Newcastle United.

Given the way football works these days — the one who has the most money (usually) wins — there will no doubt come a day sooner than we think when Saudi Arabia-owned Newcastle become a major player once more. Money talks and before long they will attract enough quality to propel themselves up the league further, before inevitably clinching the Premier League title.

When we get to that point it could well be the Magpies signing the world's next best striker, just as Manchester City have with Erling Haaland, but for now at least they remain a mid-table concern only. Manchester United may be in a bit of a mire themselves at present, but they should still have enough weight to throw around when it comes to competing with them for signings.

Splashing the cash in January helped Newcastle get away from relegation trouble; now they are gearing up for a massive summer. With virtually unlimited funds at their disposal, it will be intriguing to see which new stars end up in the North East — although they couldn't have gotten off to a duller start by making the loan of Matt Targett permanent.

One player they are said to be interested in is highly-rated Lille centre-back Sven Botman. After failing in a move for him in January, it seems Newcastle are making another attempt with the window officially opening today.

The Northern Echo reports that a £30million transfer fee has been agreed. However, there is said to be a delay due to disagreements on for the payment plan in the deal. A delay that has given United a great opportunity to sneak in and solve their own defensive dilemma.

Erik ten Hag has a