Newcastle United have reached an agreement to sign a new right-back, with the club moving quickly to strengthen their squad ahead of their Premier League opener against Liverpool.
The Magpies had been working on a deal for a defender capable of providing much-needed depth in the position, with new head coach Matthias Jaissle keen to add reinforcements before the season gets underway.
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According to Fabrizio Romano, Newcastle have now agreed a deal with Benfica for Amar Dedić, with the overall package worth €35 million and including a sell-on clause for the Portuguese side.
Benfica were keen for the Bosnia and Herzegovina international to remain at the club, but the player made a move to Newcastle his top priority and is reportedly excited about working with Jaissle once again.
The agreement comes at an important time for Newcastle, with their options at right-back having been a concern heading into the new campaign.
It had been reported that there was a possibility that Lewis Miley would be forced to fill in at right-back against Liverpool because of the lack of available options.
That highlighted the extent of Newcastle’s situation, with injuries and departures leaving Jaissle facing a difficult selection decision before the opening weekend.
Dedić’s arrival should now provide the manager with a natural option in the position rather than having to rely on a midfielder being asked to perform a defensive role.
The 23-year-old is also capable of operating on the left, offering Newcastle additional versatility across the back line. He previously worked under Jaissle at Red Bull Salzburg, making the reunion another appealing aspect of the move.
Dedić made 43 appearances for Benfica last season, including 14 in the Champions League, and registered one goal and six assists across all competitions.
With the deal now agreed, Newcastle will hope the remaining formalities can be completed quickly, giving Jaissle a major boost as his side prepare to face Liverpool in their opening Premier League fixture.
🚨⚪️⚫️ Newcastle have agreed deal with Benfica to sign Amar Dedić, here we go! 🇧🇦
Deal in place at €35m package with sell-on included for Benfica.
Portuguese club wanted Dedić to stay but player wanted #NUFC move as top priority and excited to work with Matthias Jaissle. pic.twitter.com/fY25lgocHh
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 15, 2026