Newcastle United will embark on a defensive rebuild this summer as Eddie Howe looks to address some of the key problems in his squad.

The Magpies manager enjoyed success in his first couple of years at Newcastle largely thanks to a solid defensive structure, with the likes of Kieran Trippier, Sven Botman, Dan Burn, Tino Livramento and Lewis Hall brought to Tyneside.

However, United have struggled for solidity this season, shipping goals at an alarming rate. They have only kept four clean sheets in their last 35 games with Howe admitting the softness in defence has harmed their hopes of success.

The Newcastle boss, along with sporting director Ross Wilson, have earmarked at least three defensive signings this summer as they look to continue rebuilding the squad. One key area is to reduce the average age, with the likes of Kieran Trippier, Fabian Schar, Dan Burn and Emil Krafth all the wrong side of 30.

Trippier's announcement that he will be leaving Newcastle at the end of the season means that United will need at least one right-back - potentially two if Tino Livramento is sold in the summer.