Newcastle United's next 'top priority' in the transfer market has to be the signing of a new left-back. That is the view of former Magpies full-back Olivier Bernard, who praised Dan Burn's performances last term but feels the team needs a more 'natural' option.
Having initially partnered Fabian Schar in the heart of defence after signing from Brighton in January 2022, Burn found himself shifted out wide to accomodate Sven Botman. The 31-year-old made the position his own, and helped Eddie Howe's side record the joint-best defensive record in the Premier League.
Burn also chipped in with two goals, including a memorable opening strike in the Carabao Cup quarter-final win over Leicester City in front of the Gallowgate End. Howe has depth in the role, with Matt Targett and Jamal Lewis both struggling for minutes last term.
This has not stopped reports suggesting a new left-back is on the club's radar, with Marc Cucurella and Kieran Tierney among the names reportedly under consideration. Newcastle remain in talks with Southampton for a deal for Tino Livramento, a right-back who can cover the left flank, but Bernard is adamant a 'natural' left-footer should be the next target once the deal for Sandro Tonali is confirmed.
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He told the BBC's Total Sport Newcastle United Podcast: "I think left-back is your top priority as a team. We've seen it, even though Dan Burn has done fantastic in that position, we can see it is not natural.
"He played superb all the way to the final game of the season, but having a natural full-back will bring much more going forward to this team. A couple of times, you could see Burn had the height but not the pace to get in behind.
"At times, I think full-backs are very important, especially when you play in Europe. You will find more often than not, you full-back will unlock a lot of things for you."
