Newcastle head to Holland to identify Enrique replacement

Newcastle have earmarked PSV Eindhoven defender Erik Pieters as a potential replacement for Liverpool bound Jose Enrique.

Enrique looks destined to complete his switch to Anfield before the end of the current transfer window, although Newcastle and Liverpool have still not agreed on a transfer sum.

With the Spaniard’s contract up at the end of the season and little to no chance of an extension being signed, Newcastle have already begun their search for a successor.

And it is 23-year-old Dutchman Pieters that has emerged as their leading target.

Pieters has not only become a regular member of the PSV team since signing from FC Utrecht in 2008, but has emerged as the first choice left-back in the national team since the retirement of Giovanni Van Bronckhorst.

Newcastle goalkeeper Tim Krul has also been quick to recommend his compatriot, although with PSV reluctant to sell, it may take a substantial offer in the region of £7m to encourage them to part with one of their young assets.

Krul told Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf: “The coach himself and the assistants have already seen a few matches of PSV and the question now is whether the clubs can work it out.

‘Our current left-back Enrique has a contract that expires, however, he won’t sign and is interesting many clubs.”

The developments will slightly please Newcastle fans, although they will be disappointed that another striker has not been signed ahead of their Premier League opener at home to Arsenal.

Newcastle are short in the striker department, with little top-class opposition present in their squad to rival Demba Ba and Shola Ameobi.

However, this duo are expected to lead the line against Arsenal and Newcastle are 11/4 in the Premier League odds to secure the three points.