Newcastle eye Belgian centre back Laurent Ciman

Newcastle United scouts have been monitoring the progress of Standard Liege defender Laurent Ciman. The Belgium international has been one of the stars of Standard's league campaign.

Ciman has enjoyed a thoroughly successful year and a half with Standard, but at international level the defender has yet to force his way into the first team as Thomas Vermaelen of Arsenal, Vincent Kompany of Man City and Jan Vertonghen of Ajax remain first choice centre backs. Ciman is desperate to force his way into the first team but feels his best chance would be with a move away from his homeland.


The 26-year-old defender has three years left on his deal in Liege, and could be allowed to leave if an offer of £3.8 million is received. 


Newcastle scouts have been monitoring Ciman for over a month, and are ready to open negotiations with his current club at the end of the current Premier League season.