Newcastle United want exciting 6ft 2in powerhouse as four players on course to leave in 2026
Newcastle United transfers: Eddie Howe and Ross Wilson are looking to strengthen the side’s defensive options.
Newcastle United bolstered its defence over the summer with the signing of centre-back Malick Thiaw from AC Milan.
The German has quickly become a fan favourite on Tyneside and has been hailed as the club’s signing of the summer amid a largely chaotic and frustrating transfer window.
But there is some long-term uncertainty in The Magpies’ defence. Fabian Schar, Emil Krafth and Kieran Trippier are out of contract in the summer, the lesser spotted Jamaal Lascelles too.
Newcastle United’s defensive situation
Meanwhile, the currently injured Dan Burn turns 34 in May, and there are question marks over Sven Botman and Tino Livramento’s long-term future at the club, with their contracts set to expire in 2027 and 2028 respectively.
Speaking earlier this month, Newcastle’s new sporting director Ross Wilson admitted: “It’s no secret at all that we would want to extend Tino’s contract and we would want to extend Sven Botman’s contract too.
“Those discussions are ongoing. Some discussions are more difficult than others, but the desire would be to keep those players. Will they agree those contracts? At the moment, I think it’s too early to say.”
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Botman has endured a frustrating past few years at Newcastle after an eye-catching debut season in the Premier League. The Dutch defender has been plagued by injuries and is currently sidelined with a back problem.
With uncertainty over the futures of Trippier, Krafth and Livramento, Lewis Hall is Newcastle’s most secure full-back option as things stand.
At 24, Thiaw is the only senior centre-back at Newcastle who is tied down to a long-term deal and also arguably has his best years ahead of him. More players of a similar token will be required for United moving forward.
The success of Thiaw’s £35million arrival at Newcastle shows the value and quality that can be found on the continent opposed to paying a Premier League premium. The Magpies walked away from a deal to sign Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace last summer after being quoted £70million for the defender, who is now set to leave on a free transfer at the end of the season.
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Newcastle United eye Ligue 1 youngster
According to The Daily Mail, Newcastle are looking to strengthen their full-back options after scouting Ligue 1 youngster, Dayann Methalie.
The 19-year-old has impressed in the French league after progressing through Toulouse’s academy. He’s made 17 appearances having broken into the first team this season and has also been called up to the France Under-21s squad.
He recently signed a new contract until 2030, but that hasn’t deterred Newcastle, who are reportedly weighing up an offer.
Methalie can play down the left but also slot in at centre-back. Strong and quick at 6ft 2in, he fits the physical profile Newcastle are looking for.
The winter transfer window is just weeks away from opening and, after Newcastle’s largely frustrating first half to the season, they may consider making a move for a player or two should the opportunity present itself.
Looking ahead to January, sporting director Wilson said: “Can we spend in January? Yes. If we want to, we can.