Newcastle have earmarked Christian Eriksen as their marquee signing this summer.

The Magpies have all but secured their Premier League safety and are now planning for the 2022-23 campaign under Eddie Howe.

And they believe Brentford playmaker Eriksen is the perfect man to propel them up the table.

The 30-year-old’s return to football following his heart attack during Euro 2020 has been a joy to behold — especially for Bees supporters.

He signed a short-term deal in West London in January has scored once and assisted another in five games, with Brentford victorious on each of his four starts.

Thomas Frank has made it clear that he wants to keep the Denmark international if possible — but there is plenty of interest in his services.

Eriksen’s former side Tottenham, West Ham and Everton, have all been credited with an interest in the midfielder.

But the Northern Echo report that officials at St James’ Park are confident a deal can be struck to bring the player to the North East.

Though the Magpies want to spend big this summer under their Saudi-backed owners, financial fair play rules mean they need to go about their business carefully.

That is why signing a proven top-flight star such as Eriksen is proving such an attractive option on Tyneside.

In other news

Reports in Spain suggest West Ham and Wolves would have to pay £58.1million if they want to sign Sevilla’s Lucas Ocampos.

Brazilian media believe that Corinthians, Botafogo and Flamengo have all expressed an interest in signing Manchester City skipper Fernandinho on a free transfer this summer.

Edinson Cavani’s glowing endorsement of Manchester United could help the Red Devils sign in-demand striker and fellow Uruguayan Darwin Nunez from Benfica, say 90min.