Newcastle may not have mathematically secured their promotion to the Premier League just yet but it appears Rafa Benitez is already eyeing up some potential additions for the summer.

Rock-solid defences have often been an important part of the Benitez philosophy and although the Magpies have conceded the joint-fewest goals of any Championship side this term, question marks linger over their current centre-back options – Ciaran Clark, Jamaal Lascelles, Grant Hanley and Chancel Mbemba – who have all featured but struggled to convince in recent weeks.

According to The Independent, the Toon gaffer is already eyeing a potential upgrade in the form of Stoke City’s Ryan Shawcross; a real old-school centre-back famed for his gritty, physical and aggressive style of defending.

With a year remaining on his Potters contract, Shawcross could certainly be whisked away this summer, and aged 29, the former Manchester United youngster should have a few good seasons still left in the tank.

But is he the signing to ensure Newcastle’s top-flight survival? Would you back a summer swoop for Shawcross? Let us know by voting below!