Newcastle Transfers: 10 Centre-Backs Magpies Must Sign

7. Virgil van Dijk

Age: 23 Club: Celtic Nationality: Dutch Estimated market value: £10 million Club Appearances (Current, League): 70 International Caps: 0 Newcastle United need at least two centre-backs this summer - and they have effectively been given a €œcome-and-get-me€ plea by Celtic defender Virgil van Dijk. Van Dijk told Dutch radio station Omroep Brabant that he would seriously consider a move away from the SPL this summer. He said:

"Celtic are a great club with a fantastic stadium and the fans are great but the competition is not too good. "I want to develop. If the opportunity is there, I would definitely consider a transfer. But maybe there will be nothing."

Considered to be one of the finest talents north of the border, Van Dijk has been courted by a whole host of Premier League clubs, including Southampton and Arsenal. Van Dijk was capped three times by the Holland Under-21 side and he has made 170 career appearances in all for both Groningen and Celtic, scoring 22 times. Another signing who would show real ambition, Newcastle simply have to push the boat out to win the race to sign Van Dijk. He is far too good for the Scottish league and the gulf in class is borderline embarrassing every time he represents Celtic. And, with 15 goals in 70 league appearances for the Scottish giants, the 6ft 4ins centre-back could finally add a much-needed goal threat to the Newcastle defence. CLICK HERE to read about NUFC being linked to Van Dijk - and HERE for reports they are after his SPL-winning centre-back team-mate Jason Denayer.