Newcastle United’s search for a centre-back has led them to a Premier League star who is open to a move in January.
A centre-back was Newcastle United’s top priority over the summer with new sporting director Paul Mitchell chasing a deal for Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi.
Eventually, Newcastle walked away from the Guehi deal after his price tag soared beyond £65m and they ended the summer window without having addressed their weakness at the back.
The imminent return of Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles has somewhat eased concerns at centre-back, but Eddie Howe will still want to strengthen in that area in 2025 even if a right winger is now the top priority.
Newcastle remain interested in Guehi heading into the January transfer window, but other cheaper options are also presenting themselves.
Victor Lindelof of Manchester United during the UEFA Europa League 2024/25 League Phase MD4 match between Manchester United and PAOK FC at Old Traf...
Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images
Newcastle United interest in Victor Lindelof
Newcastle’s January budget will be tight as the club continues to wrestle with the Profit and Sustainability Rules.
With a large portion of that budget expected to be spent on a new winger, Newcastle may have to explore cheaper options at centre-back.
According to CaughtOffside, Newcastle are one of three Premier League sides showing an interest in Manchester United defender Victor Lindelof alongside Everton and West Ham.
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The 30-year-old Sweden international has dropped down the pecking order at Old Trafford and is open to leaving in January.
Manchester United want between €7-8m (£6m) to allow Lindelof to leave in January. He will become a free agent in the summer when his contract expires.
Would Victor Lindelof fit into Newcastle’s XI?
Newcastle’s search for a centre-back so far has been focused on young, athletic and pacey defenders who would directly improve the starting XI.
It is hard to fit Lindelof into that category. He does boast plenty of Premier League experience with 183 appearances for Manchester United, but signing him would be a very short-term solution to the defensive issues.
On top of that, Lindelof is reportedly earning £120,000 per week at United. Newcastle would struggle to match that figure under their PSR restraints.
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Signing Lindelof would add some much-needed depth and experience to Newcastle’s back line but it is hardly a major upgrade on the starting XI.
Newcastle have other Guehi alternatives that they could target in January who may have less experience but are also long-term solutions at centre-back.
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