Newcastle United have been linked with signing a whole host of new centre-backs so far this month.
The Magpies are extremely keen on strengthening their options at the heart of their defence given that they have conceded 43 goals already this season. Only Norwich City have a worse record.
Two players who Newcastle are reportedly strongly interested in are Sven Botman and Diego Carlos, both of whom were in action for their respective clubs over the weekend.
Go here for all the latest Newcastle United news
Botman is a player Newcastle were focusing most of their attention towards during the early stages of the window, but after seeing a number of bids rejected by Lille, they have now decided to search elsewhere.
And seemingly this weekend, the 21-year-old has shown that he has refused to allow the ongoing transfer speculation to affect his game.
He put in a strong performance at both ends of the pitch for the French champions, netting the opener in their clash with Marseille at the Velodrome.
Lille, though, were forced to show their defensive strength as they had to play the final 60 minutes with 10 men after Benjamin Andre was sent off.
Botman and his team-mates remained resolute until 15 minutes from time, when Cengiz Under earned Marseille a 1-1 draw.
Meanwhile, fellow defensive target Carlos was also taking part in a huge game this weekend, with a trip to Sevilla’s bitter rivals Real Betis in the Copa del Rey last-16.
Sevilla took the lead 10 minutes before the interval through Alejandro Gomez, but just four minutes later were pegged back as Nabil Fekir scored direct from a corner.
And it ended in disappointment for Carlos and his team-mates as Sergio Canales’ 73 rd minute goal sent Sevilla packing and Betis into the next round.
For the latest Newcastle news direct to your inbox, go here to sign up to our free newsletter
