Newcastle United are reportedly among three Premier League clubs who hold an interest in signing Rangers defender Leon King.
The Magpies are currently enjoying one of their best starts to a Premier League campaign for a number of years, collecting 14 points from their opening nine fixtures.
As a result of their solitary defeat coming in the closing seconds at Liverpool, Eddie Howe's side occupy sixth position in the table and possess the joint-best defensive record.
However, despite spending big money during the most recent two transfer windows, it appears that Howe continues to contemplate how to further strengthen his squad.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Newcastle had scouts present to assess the performance of King when Rangers faced Liverpool at Anfield last week.
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The 18-year-old played the full 90 minutes as the Scottish giants succumbed to a 2-0 defeat to their English opponents in the Champions League.
Despite not being due to turn 19 years of age until January, the centre-back has been used by Giovanni van Bronckhorst on a regular basis during 2022-23.
Two starts and six substitute appearances have been made in the Scottish Premiership and Champions League group stages, while the teenager also started the League Cup triumph over Queen of the South.
Nevertheless, although it appears that the Scotland Under-21 international is regarded as one for the future by Rangers, his contract situation needs to be resolved.
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King's current terms are due to expire at the end of 2023-24, putting the club's hierarchy in a position where they need to try to agree an extension.
As well as Newcastle, Romano says that Manchester United and Leeds United have also emerged as admirers of the prospect in recent months.
With United well stocked for options in that area of the pitch, Newcastle and the Yorkshire outfit currently offer the clearest pathway to senior football in the Premier League.
King will hope to earn more game time when Rangers square off against Liverpool for the second time in quick succession on Wednesday night.
Darren Plant
