Newcastle United closely monitored AC Milan defender Fikayo Tomori this summer, according to journalist Craig Hope.
The Magpies were expected to sign a new centre-half to provide competition for first-choice pairing Malick Thiaw and Sven Botman.
Fabian Schar and Dan Burn are entering the twilight of their careers, and Newcastle need to refresh their defensive options.
However, they decided not to pursue another centre-half after extending Schar’s contract,
Newcastle defenders haven’t exactly covered themselves in glory this term, and they could use another authoritative defender at the back.
Tomori may have been a serviceable option. He has Premier League experience and proved his mettle with Milan.
The 28-year-old is rapid, which allows him to match fast attackers stride for stride. He has thrived seamlessly in a back three or four.
However, Newcastle need a difference-maker at the back, and Tomori is not the answer.
Newcastle should steer clear of Tomori
Tomori’s performances have declined noticeably over the past few seasons, and his current situation at Milan reflects that downturn.
Manager Ruben Amorim is keen to move on from the defender and has left him out of the first-team picture for a reason.
He still possesses the pace to recover when opponents get in behind, but that is not enough for a team like Newcastle looking for a commanding presence at centre-back.
Tomori is not particularly imposing physically, while his aerial ability is a significant weakness.
His experience and versatility made him an understandable target, but the Magpies should be looking for more than that.
The longer-term plan is to replace Schar next summer with a centre-back in the 21-to-24 age profile.
