Stoke City captain Ryan Shawcross is a target for Newcastle United boss Rafa Benitez.

The Sun says the defender will be first on Benitez's long list of targets should he win promotion from the Championship.

Benitez wants at least six new faces, according to The Independent, and wants to ensure there are no leaks in the Newcastle defence.

Ciaran Clark and Jamaal Lascelles have formed a solid centre-back partnership this season, but neither boasts much Prem experience.

Shawcross, 29, is out of contract in the summer of 2018, and is yet to be offered any new deal.

He signed for the Potters in 2007 on loan from Manchester United, making the move permanent the following year.