4. Douglas
For the first three months of last season, Newcastle United had the meanest defence in the country. They didn't concede a goal for several games, put on an amazing undefeated streak and thanks mostly to Tim Krul, Fabricio Coloccini and Steven Taylor, they were resolutely undefeatable. Then Steven Taylor found himself injured in November, ruling him out for the rest of the season an despite the hard work of Mike Williamson, Newcastle's defence were seldom the same. With Taylor having a tendency to be injury prone and with Newcastle requiring to play more games next season because of their European commitments, there is a feeling that another body in centre-half positions is required. The imposing 24-year-old Brazilian central defender Douglas is thought to be one of the best in his position in the country and has been linked with the top Premier League clubs as he refuses to sign an extension to his contract that expires in 12 months. His future at Twente has grown ever more dubious after failing to return from his homeland to start pre-season training which has infuriated boss Steve McClaren. Alan Pardew and Newcastle chief scout Graham Carr have watched him play a number of times and believe a deal could be agreed for him.