10 Centre-Backs Newcastle Must Sign Before The Start Of The Season

8. Joel Veltman

Age: 23 Club: Ajax Nationality: Dutch Estimated Market Value: £8 million League Apps (2014-15): 25 Joel Veltman is a product of Ajax's impressive youth system and has continually progressed as a defender throughout his early career. The 23-year-old already has seven senior international caps for Holland and is making a name for himself as one of the most promising European defenders. What's more, Newcastle United have been linked with the player on several occasions this summer. Veltman is a classy defender, he played 25 games for Ajax last season and scored three goals. He already has Champions League experience and enjoys tackling and moving forward with the ball in a similar way to which both Gerard Pique and Sergio Ramos do. The addition of the Dutch international to the Magpies' squad would be a real indication of the ambition Mike Ashley wants to show to Newcastle fans as he is a truly exceptional defensive talent.