Eddie Howe’s Newcastle United are aiming to strengthen their squad to bolster their push for a Champions League spot in the upcoming season. After falling short last season, the Magpies are eager to recapture the form they displayed during the 2022-23 campaign.
There are quite a few areas to address in Newcastle’s squad to give them an overall sense of stability even with injuries. Last season, the defense suffered due to a number of injuries to key players and Howe needs more options to work with.
The player they have identified to reinforce the defense is England’s Euro 2024 star Marc Guehi. However, after their initial bid was rejected, their second offer of £50 million was also turned down by Crystal Palace, who value the Three Lions international at £65 million.
Guehi has become the Magpies’ top priority this summer, following the signings of William Osula, Lewis Hall, Odysseas Vlachodimos, and Lloyd Kelly. As per Sky Sports, Newcastle have now submitted a third bid, in hopes of bringing the Crystal Palace star to St. James’ Park.
Howe has made no secret of his intention to sign a new center-back for the upcoming season. Upon being asked about signing another center-back, here is what the Magpies manager had to say: “We’re slightly light on numbers. Emil (Krafth) has done a really good job during pre-season, playing inside from his normal full-back position and he has the capability to do that.”
“We have very good players in there, but naturally, when you lose players like Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles for the length of time that we have, that was a big dent in the middle of our defense. It’s two huge losses. I think the lads that came in the back end of the season did very well, but it’s certainly an area we’re looking at.”
Guehi had a superb Premier League campaign starring under Oliver Glasner’s management and played a crucial role in helping England reach the finals of the European Championship.
Guehi featured in Crystal Palace’s final pre-season match against Ligue 1 side Nantes. The 24-year-old had a great performance as Palace held the visitors to a 1-1 draw. The 24-year-old will be a good addition to the Newcastle defence and it remains to be seen if Eddie Howe can sign him by the end of this transfer window.
With a significant amount already spent this summer, Newcastle United must be cautious of the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules. If Crystal Palace refuse to lower their asking price, Newcastle may have to consider alternative options.
