It appears Shawcross has become Rafa's no.1 target for CB should we get promoted to the Premier League, me personally thinks this would be a great signing, solid, years of PL experience, might be tough to convince him, but if we make a few signings of this ilk we would be on our way to creating a very solid team.
Big lad at the back. Replacement for Hanley. A bit limited and loves a hug in the box. But definitely upping the overall quality in cb and competition. I'm game even if I think he is a dirty player
Probably not a bad option if Stoke would sell him, although he only has one year left on his deal after this season. He'll be 30 in October, mind, so I can't see Ashley allowing much to be spent on him. It's no good buying a CB to be a back up, though. We need a first teamer and someone who is considerably better than the CBs we already have. If Shawcross is of that standard then fine.
He's a thug but I would love it, just love it, if we bought him because he would be our thug. As someone has already said we are too nice and it's a long time since we had a real old fashioned hard 'un.
Absolute no brainer. He's better than anyone we've had at the back since Bobby Robson was here, though that isn't saying much. Also, alongside that sort of experience the likes of Mbemba and Lascelles would look better I suspect. I just cannot see it happening though, would love it if it did. Unlike some I think a quality CB, DM and Striker may be enough to survive. Clearly more (including wingers!) would help even more-so.
I went to the chemist for one of those pills but couldn't get it over the counter, so they're nowt special.
Be a good signing. Stoke to Newcastle though? Why would he? I can't see this one happening. He's been there for nearly 10 yrs and is captain, first choice...
We are the Barcelona of the North. Stoke will quiver in fear once Ashley lays down a 3million pound bid for the big lad! Who could resist us!!