Danilo Doekhi has ‘aroused the interest’ of Newcastle United, who are reportedly ‘in the picture’ to sign the Dutch star.
The 22-year old Vitesse Arnhem star is only contracted at his current club until the summer of 2022 so if they do not look to sell one of their prize assets this upcoming transfer window, they run the risk of missing out on a transfer fee.
However, it doesn’t seem like he will necessarily be available at a cut price with interest being high in the centre back. Other English clubs Fulham and Norwich City are mentioned in De Telegraaf’s report whilst Serie A outfit Atalanta and Scottish champions Rangers are also set to be keen admirers of Doekhi.
With 34 appearances to his name this season, he has been a big part of the Vitesse side that has reached the final of the Dutch cup as well as looking on course to qualify for European football via the league. It is surely reassuring to see such a young player have such a good impact in the side and whilst the Premier League is arguably a different kettle of fish, the signs are promising.
At taller than six feet and two inches, Doekhi fits the bill for a centre back coming to the English game and his main strengths being his aerial abilities and his concentration, he should find himself well suited to life in the Premier League.
He boasts a decent international pedigree as well having been capped at every youth level between under 18s and 21s for Holland.
Doekhi is not the first central defender to be linked with a move to St. James’ Park recently with Kristoffer Ajer also being talked about as a potential acquisition and it seems like it could be an area that we are keen to improve on.