Report: Club already lining up replacement for their ‘outstanding’ player after Newcastle launch bid

It’s been a busy start to the summer transfer window for Eddie Howe and Newcastle United.

Lloyd Kelly has completed a switch to St James’ Park after leaving Bournemouth on a free transfer and more could follow the centre-back through the door imminently.

There is also confidence that a deal for Everton’s Dominic Calvert-Lewin will be wrapped up this week, with Eddie Howe keen to strengthen his options in attack.

A real problem area for Newcastle last season was central defence after injuries to Fabian Schar and Sven Botman.

Max Kilman has emerged as a target for Newcastle but there is still plenty of work to be done on a potential move to the north East. 

Wolves have reportedly knocked back a player-plus-cash deal for Kilman, which included youngster Elliott Anderson.

However, Wolves are already searching for replacements as they prepare for Kilman’s potential departure.

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Wolves target Max Kilman replacement after Newcastle bid

GiveMeSport reports that Wolves have already looked at options at centre-back with interest in Kilman growing.

Borussia Monchengladbach defender Nico Elvedi is on their radar and Gary O’Neil’s men have a plan in place should Kilman leave.

The Wolves defender certainly isn’t short of interest, with West Ham, Manchester United and Newcastle all keen.

READ MORE: Newcastle staff think they are very close to selling ‘dangerous’ player for £25m

Kilman’s injury record

Kilman has been ever present for Wolves over the past couple of seasons and didn’t miss a single Premier League game last term.

The ‘outstanding’ centre-back also missed just one league game during the 2023/24 campaign.

Given Newcastle’s struggles with injuries last season, Kilman’s reliability would be a huge plus for Howe.

The 27-year-old would also be able to provide extra cover at left-back after racking up 34 appearances in the position throughout his career.