Newcastle United are focusing on attacking reinforcements right now, but it is also vital that they sign a centre-back.
This is the third transfer window in a row that Newcastle United are trying to sign a right-sided centre-back, as they aim to bring in Fabian Schar’s long-term replacement at St James’ Park.
Newcastle tried to sign Marc Guehi 12 months ago, but Paul Mitchell failed to agree a fee with Crystal Palace. It developed into quite the saga, before ending in rather embarrassing fashion for the Magpies.
When January arrived, Newcastle almost signed Abdukodir Khusanov. However, PSR got in the way as Manchester City swooped in.
Newcastle United thought they could sign Dean Huijsen
Already this summer, Newcastle United have failed to sign another centre-back target. Dean Huijsen has joined Real Madrid for £50million, despite Toon officials speaking to the Spain international about a move to Tyneside.
Dean Huijsen playing for Real Madrid at the Club World Cup in America.
Photo by Nicolò Campo/LightRocket via Getty Images
Huijsen had a plethora of giant clubs chasing his signature, but Newcastle actually thought they had a really good chance of getting him until Real Madrid entered the conversation.
That is the view of Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie, who has spoken about Newcastle’s interest in Huijsen on his YouTube channel.
“The Dean Huijsen one at Bournemouth was one Newcastle thought they had a real chance of,” he said.
MORE NEWCASTLE STORIES
“He was very impressed by the project here at Newcastle. I think Newcastle really, really thought they had a chance of getting him, but when Real Madrid come to the table it is difficult.”
Why Newcastle United missing out on Dean Huijsen is different to other snubs
When Newcastle United thought they could sign Huijsen, there must have been a real buzz behind the scenes. He proved during his year at Bournemouth that he has all the tools to be a top level defender, as well as boasting the attributes that Eddie Howe is looking for.
The 20-year-old would have been a perfect addition to the Newcastle United squad, but Howe will have no complaints over missing out. As soon as Real Madrid decided they wanted him, it was game over.
Huijsen’s preference was to play in Spain, despite so much Premier League interest. So when a La Liga side came calling, the biggest club in the world no less, it was obvious where he was going.
The defender is another player who Newcastle United have missed out on this summer, but this one will hurt a lot less for that exact reason. In contrast, it is infuriating that Chelsea are signing Joao Pedro ahead of the Magpies. They already have a wealth of forward options, having also bought Toon target Liam Delap earlier this summer.