Newcastle step up interest in £10 million centre-back

Newcastle United are reportedly stepping up their interest in Schalke centre-back Joel Matip.

The Magpies were linked with a move for the £10 million rated Cameroon international in the summer, but nothing materialised.

However, after a poor season to date, in which they’ve conceded 30 goals in 14 matches, the North East side are keen to bring the 24-year-old to the Premier League.

Under-pressure boss Steve McClaren is a big fan of the defender after seeing him close up in the Bundesliga, during his stint as Wolfsburg manager, and feels the 6ft 4in German-born player will add some much-needed quality to his squad.