Newcastle United are keeping tabs on Groningen defender Virgil van Dijk.

The Evening Chronicle says Van Dijk is a player Toon scouts have run the rule over since the new season kicked off, according to sources in Holland.

At 6ft 4in, van Dijk would provide cover in the centre of defence with Fabricio Coloccini's recent injury trouble and James Perch's neck problem highlighting the need for more back-up.