Newcastle are reportedly chasing Toulouse centre back Christopher Jullien again, and the towering defender’s stats suggest he’d be the perfect replacement for Florian Lejeune.

What's the story?

According to Robin Bairner, Newcastle are one of three clubs “tracking” Jullien, who was linked with a move to Tyneside earlier this summer.

Bairner claims the Magpies are joined by Everton and Southampton, who are also both in dire need of defensive reinforcements.

Newcastle replaced Chancel Mbemba with Switzerland ace Fabian Schar, but the cruciate ligament injury to the popular Lejeune means they now must dip into the market again.

Jullien is an absolute giant standing at 6 ft 5, and he looks to be the perfect man to fill Lejeune’s shoes.

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Would he be a shrewd signing?

Without doubt the biggest factor in Newcastle’s incredible run up the table last season was Lejeune’s partnership with Jamaal Lascelles. The arrivals of Kenedy and Martin Dubravka certainly played their part, but with Lejeune out Rafa absolutely must find a new partnership for Lascelles.

Jullien was one of the standout players in Ligue 1 last season, making six clearances per game while also winning over four aerial duels per game. His sheer strength and power make him a force to be reckoned with, and he is perfect for defending with a deep block.

Defending isn’t the only thing he excels at though, as he also knows how to pop up with big goals at the other end. The 25 year-old has scored five league goals during his two seasons with Toulouse, and he scored a staggering nine league goals in one season with Dijon in 2015-16. Including all competitions, the Frenchman averages a goal every five games across the last three seasons.

If Rafa is looking for a big powerful defender who reads the game well and can pitch in with a few goals at the other end, then look no further than Jullien. It would also provide more competition for Schar, and the competition to partner Lascelles at the back would make both players better.

So, Newcastle fans, would you back a move for Jullien now that Lejeune is injured? Let us know your thoughts by voting in the poll below…