Newcastle United reportedly sent scouts to watch 22-year-old Ajax man expected to cost £29m

Paul Mitchell's scouting network continues to scour the globe looking for inexpensive, yet highly regarded talent to join Newcastle United.

After almost wasting £70 million on a centre-back, instead of just wasting time chasing said centre-back, a new approach to the transfer windows needs to be made by the club and now that Paul Mitchell has his feet under the desk, that is expected to happen.

Profit and Sustainability Rules are still a huge hurdle for Newcastle, who want to be challenging for honours, so while they can't go out and buy ready-made superstars, the approach is to find younger players with star potential and bring them to the club early and develop them internally.

That's why a lot of players linked with Newcastle may not be names you've heard of, but on the continent carry sterling reputations and huge expectations.

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Newcastle and Arsenal are looking at Ajax midfielder Kenneth Taylor

It's now being reported by Caught Offside that Newcastle, along with a few other top clubs, have their eye on Ajax midfielder Kenneth Taylor.

Scouts from Newcastle and Arsenal recently watched the 22-year-old central midfielder in action and could be gearing up to make a move.

Ajax will be reluctant to sell, but the report suggests a €35 million (£29 million) bid could be all it takes to change their mind.

Kenneth Taylor could be a long-term replacement for Bruno Guimaraes

Taylor has been an ever-present for Ajax this season with 11 appearances, two goals and two assists to his name.

Arsenal are likely the early favourites for Taylor's signature, especially given that a midfielder is far from Newcastle's priority right now.

However, there is a growing realisation that Newcastle may have to sacrifice one of their top stars to generate funds for a squad rebuild, and Bruno Guimaraes could be a player they could move on quickly for a high price. This would give Taylor an opportunity to make that midfield spot his own in the long term.