Newcastle begin talks with 23-year-old powerhouse Jamaal Lascelles on England’s watch

Newcastle United have open talks with their defender Jamaal Lascelles for a new improved deal, according to the Chronicle.

The newspaper claim that the Magpies have opened discussions with the team captain about extending his existing deal, which is currently set to expire in 2020.

It is believed that Rafael Benitez has been impressed with the 23-year-old performances during the past 12 months and the club want him to lead them forward to the next level.

The English defender is a powerhouse defender that has become a popular figure at St. James’ Park and helped the Magpies record a 1-0 win over Swansea on Sunday.

He scored the winning goal for Newcastle and also made a goal-line clearance from Tammy Abraham.

The report details that Lascelles is currently on the radar for England and that national team manager Gareth Southgate watched him in a recent win over West Ham.

Is offering an improved deal for Jamaal Lascelles a good move for Newcastle?

Lascelles has become an important player at St James Park this season despite concerns in the summer over whether he would feature in the best starting XI.

He has shown he has the quality in the top flight and fans need to remember he is still just 23.

Given Lascelles a new improved long-term deal seems like a good move and put the pressure on him to become even better.

His man of the match performance against Swansea is a level he should strive to meet every week and letting him know his important to the Toons will help.

How likely is this going to happen?

It seems fairly likely that he will agree a new deal with the North-East club as discussions commence.

He has become an integral part of Rafael Benitez’s side and helped them win promotion from the Championship last season.

Lascelles is only going to boost any England chances by staying at Newcastle and impressing in their starting line-up, while also benefiting under the tutelage of Benitez.