Out-of-favour Everton defender reportedly on Newcastle’s January target list

Newcastle United reportedly have Mason Holgate on their target list heading into the January transfer window.

The Everton defender has been out of favour this season.

Background

Holgate has made only seven Premier League appearances, with Yerry Mina, Michael Keane and Ben Godfrey all preferred in central defence by Rafa Benitez when fit.

To compound Holgate's frustrating campaign, he was issued a straight red card just 10 minutes after coming on as a substitute in a 1-1 draw against Tottenham in November.

Now aged 25, the centre-back could seek regular football elsewhere in a bid to reignite his career.

Sky Sports claims that Newcastle are one potential suitor, having also been linked with a move in the summer.

The Magpies have an intriguing transfer window approaching.

They have cash to splash after their Saudi Arabia-led takeover yet find themselves in the relegation zone at the halfway stage.

Manager Eddie Howe may be forced to sign either top-flight players struggling for game time or Championship players capable of stepping up in their fight for survival.

Holgate falls into that bracket. Having almost helped West Brom be promoted to the Premier League during a loan spell in the 2018-19 season, he could also be a key player at Newcastle next season should they go down.

Would Everton be willing to sell?

If it was for the right price, you'd think they would be open.

Everton have well-documented financial problems and need to raise funds.

Selling a fringe player in Holgate would allow Benitez to potentially reinvest in his squad.

Holgate's fourth-choice centre-half and the Toffees have the highly-rated Jarrad Branthwaite - who recently signed a new deal - who could step up.

Holgate, who is under contract at Goodison Park until 2025, is valued at £16.2 million by Transfermrkt.