Newcastle considering move for Rodriguez ahead of Premier League return

Newcastle United can secure promotion to the Premier League with a win over Preston North End on Monday night, after just a year in the second tier.

With Brighton and Hove Albion having already sealed promotion, the second spot is Newcastle’s to seize at St. James’ Park, and manager Rafa Benitez is beginning to draw out his top flight plans for next season, starting with his summer transfers.

According to reports from the Daily Mail, the Magpies have identified three key targets ahead of their return, Fulham playmaker Tom Cairney, Stoke defender Ryan Shawcross and one-time England international Jay Rodriguez.

The Southampton striker, who has failed to find the form he showed to earn his England call up in 2014 having missed almost two years through injury, has been a bit part player under Claude Puel this term and, after interest in January and with fellow striker Charlie Austin set to return from injury this week, he could be available this summer.

Premier League experience would not be short in the additions of Shawcross and Rodriguez, with just shy of 400 top flight appearances between them, whilst Fulham’s Cairney has light up the Championship with 11 goals and as many assists so far this season.