'Defensive genius' wanted by Newcastle is keeping his options open ahead of the summer transfer window

Newcastle United continue their search for a defensive-minded midfielder to shore up that gap between the midfield and the back line.

Last night's defeat to Crystal Palace was a prime example of why Newcastle must find a strong defensive midfielder this summer and reports suggest that the Magpies remain keen on Argentine international Exequial Palacios of Bayer Levekusen.

Sport Witness claim that Newcastle are among several Premier League clubs interested in the player dubbed a 'defensive genius' in a report by The Athletic, but the player himself isn't yet sure where his future lies.

Palacios is thriving at Leverkusen on Xabi Alonso as part of the history-making side as they lifted their first-ever Bundesliga title while remaining unbeaten in 45 games so far this season.

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Newcastle could be the next destination for Exequiel Palacios

Speaking to La Nacion, an Argentine publication, Palacios says he's not yet thought about his future, but kind of left the door open.

“Bayer Leverkusen met all my expectations

“Here I was always able to develop more as a player. I enjoy being in Germany, I am very comfortable, happy. I don’t think about the future, then we’ll see where I’m going next.”

Leverkusen will be looking for a tidy profit on their investment

Palacios has managed five goals and five assists in his 30 appearances for Leverkusen this season after finally finding his form in Germany following a rocky start.

Newcastle and Aston Villa were linked with an interest in the 25-year-old World Cup winner at the turn of the year, but it's understood that any potential suitor would have to cough up considerably more than the £15million Leverkusen paid for him.

It was rumoured by Sport Bild (via Sport Witness) that Leverkusen would look to start negotiations at £25million which shouldn't be too off-putting for Newcastle.