Newcastle have scouted Lecce’s Tiago Gabriel

Newcastle United have centre-back Tiago Gabriel on their radar as the Geordies plan for defensive reinforcement, according to the Daily Mail’s Craig Hope.

‘Newcastle have scouted’ the 6ft5ins 21-year-old defender who has taken Serie A by storm this season.

The Newcastle target is a monster, winning 3.8 aerial duels (67%) and 2.9 ground duels (70%) per 90. He has helped keep six clean sheets in 20 league appearances.

His massive frame also makes him a threat in the opposition box, where he consistently finds himself on the end of set-pieces.

Gabriel is also surprisingly quick across the ground. He is a ‘dogged’ defender and a fantastic talent.

While his progressive passing and carrying could use a lot of work, playing for a low-possession side like Lecce does not let him show that side of his game.

Gabriel looks like the ideal profile to slot into Newcastle’s defensive pecking order without disrupting the balance Eddie Howe is trying to build.

With Malick Thiaw and Sven Botman pencilled in as long-term starters, the Magpies need a reliable, high-upside option just behind them, someone who can grow into the role.

Gabriel fits that brief perfectly. Forgotten man Jamaal Lascelles is expected to depart this summer, and his exit will leave a void in terms of depth, leadership and presence.

Gabriel can step into that space and, over time, make it his own. More importantly, Newcastle must think beyond short-term solutions.

Dan Burn and Fabian Schar have been excellent servants, but both are ageing and should not be blocking the pathway for a young defender with clear developmental upside.

Gabriel needs minutes to iron out the rough edges of his game, and St James’ Park could provide the perfect environment.

Managed correctly, he could evolve from a capable understudy into a genuine long-term asset for the club.