Brentford

Brentford

Premier League • England

Newcastle rival Leicester, Everton for impressive star grasping Prem chance

Pontus Jansson challenging Raul Jimenez

Pontus Jansson is attracting interest from three clubs who could offer him the next step in the Premier League as his contract with Brentford winds down, according to a report.

Jansson developed a reputation for being a standout defender in the Championship across three years with Leeds United and two with Brentford, the latter of which led to their promotion to the Premier League.

The Sweden international has been busy since becoming a top-flight player. He has started all 16 of Brentford’s league games so far this season.

In doing so, it appears he has convinced other clubs that he belongs in the highest tier. And because his terms with Brentford expire at the end of the season, there is a chance he could be on the move.

According to the Guardian, Jansson is now of interest to Leicester City, Everton and Newcastle United.

All three clubs are hoping to reinforce their squads in January. Leicester have had to navigate the first part of the season without impressive centre-back Wesley Fofana, for example, showing they need more cover – especially if he leaves for a bigger stage in the long-term.

More immediately, Jonny Evans has also had some injury issues and it would be wise for them to increase their depth if possible.

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Everton have not picked up the results they would have been hoping for under Rafael Benitez. He now has a bigger say over transfers after the exit of Marcel Brands and could turn to Jansson.

Defence is an area for the Toffees to improve. Only three teams have conceded more than their 28 goals in the Premier League so far this season.

Pontus Jansson also a Newcastle target

Pontus Jansson TEAMtalk

Newcastle, meanwhile, have money to spend after their Saudi-backed takeover. They will be hoping to convince some players to ignore their position in the relegation zone and think about a potentially brighter future.

To get out of their current predicament, they need to improve their squad in the winter. Defence is one area to strengthen and Eddie Howe may want two new centre-backs if possible.

Jansson could be one of them, but Brentford will be doing their best to stand in the way of his suitors. The Guardian predict their asking price will be substantial, despite the risk of losing him for free at the end of the season.

At the age of 30, this could be Jansson’s last chance to join a bigger club again. Therefore, any of his three admirers may give him and Brentford something to consider.

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