Newcastle reportedly identify January top target in highly sought after Senegalese defender

Newcastle have joined the long list of clubs interested in the services of £10million-rated Anderlecht centre-back Kara Mbodji ahead of the January transfer window.

The 27-year-old is also on the radar of Leicester City, Swansea, Crystal Palace, Brighton and Huddersfield, while Turkish trio Fenerbahce, Galatasaray and Besiktas are also said to be in talks with the Belgian outfit.

Since arriving the Jupiler League from Norwegian club Tromsø in 2012, Mbodji has grown in leaps and bounds, switching Genk for Anderlecht 3 impressive campaigns later.

The Senegal international has long been linked with the Premier League, with the Foxes and Eagles failing with earlier bids.

Newcastle can shore up their rearguard with the top quality defensive services the 6ft 3in Mbodji offers, but they face an uphill task landing him due to the many suitors keen.

He’s also attracting interests from Italy and Spain, making him one of the most wanted defenders on the continent.

The Magpies have conceded a goal per game on an average this term, but having a player of Mbodji calibre could see the number reduce significantly.