Newcastle transfer news: Ryan Shawcross tops Rafa Benitez’s wishlist as Toon boss plans overhaul for Premier League promotion
Stoke skipper is out of contract in 2018 and Magpies boss hopes the lack of any new contract offer will help his bid
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NEWCASTLE have made Ryan Shawcross their top target ahead of their return to the Premier League, according to reports.
The Stoke captain is on Rafa Benitez's long list of targets after winning promotion from the Championship.
Benitez wants at least six new faces, according to The Independent, and wants to ensure there are no leaks in the Newcastle defence.
Ciaran Clark and Jamaal Lascelles have formed a solid centre-back partnership this season, but neither boasts much Prem experience.
Shawcross, 29, is out of contract in the summer of 2018, and is yet to be offered any new deal.
He signed for the Potters in 2007 on loan from Manchester United, making the move permanent the following year.
The once-capped England defender has made 382 appearances for Stoke and is a no-nonsense centre-half.
In February, Shawcross was furious after boss Mark Hughes revealed ex-Potters manager Tony Pulis called the player "a loser".
He did not expect the embarrassing message to be made public by his gaffer.
Newcastle edged out Brighton to win the Championship and have already made Christian Atsu their first signing of the summer.
Benitez's side host Leeds on Friday and travel to Ipswich on Monday.
