Newcastle reportedly set to make a move for 32-year-old international

Skrtel Liverpool
Wikimedia: Kev Ruscoe

According to 90min, Newcastle United will lock horns with Swansea and Stoke City in the battle to sign Martin Skrtel, a combative ex-Liverpool defender.

The Slovakian international has impressed during his stay at Fenerbahce, and the club finished third in the Turkish Super Lig. However, it seems that the club are facing financial difficulties and Skrtel’s high salary present a significant burden on their wage budget.

Reportedly, Rafa Benitez could take advantage of the circumstances and lure the player over to Tyneside. As a matter of fact, the Spanish coach brought Skrtel to Liverpool back in 2008, and it seems that they could re-start their cooperation at Newcastle.

The Magpies could certainly benefit from one such reinforcement, and the Slovakian defender would provide quality in the back line. Skrtel also comes with bags of Premier League experience, and Benitez could focus his attention on his former player in the upcoming period.