Newcastle target double Celtic swoop as Derby, Wolves eye Hanley

Jozo Simunovic: Linked with move to Torino

Jozo Simunovic: Linked with move to Newcastle

Newcastle are reportedly preparing a £9million approach for Celtic defender Jozo Simunovic, as Rafa Benitez prepares to make his squad Premier League ready.

The Magpies boss spent big money assembling a side capable of getting out of the Championship and the gamble paid off as Newcastle sealed an immediate return after finishing as champions.

However, Benitez knows Newcastle will once again need to show him the money to ensure the club are able to hold their own in the top tier once again and it’s reported the Spaniard has given the club a sizable list of targets.

And it’s reported that Benitez is keen to bring in Celtic defender Simunovic, who has shone at the heart of the Bhoys defence this season.

The Croatian joined the Hoops from Dinamo Zagreb last summer and has been a key cog into Brendan Rodgers’ side as they topped the 100-point barrier for the season and closed in on a domestic Treble.

The Sun claims Newcastle are preparing a £9million offer for Simunovic and are also considering a move for his Bhoys team-mate Efe Ambrose, who has spent time on loan at Hibs this season.

The Nigerian had previously gained a reputation as erratic after five error-strewn seasons at Celtic but it’s claimed Newcastle view his 51 international caps and European experience as a plus.

United are in the market for at least one central defender as they boost their squad for next season’s top-flight campaign and on Sunday were also linked with a move for Leicester’s Wes Morgan.

Scotland stopper Grant Hanley is set to be offloaded after starting only five league games in their Championship title-winning campaign, with Derby and Wolves both keen on him.