There’s been a fresh update on Newcastle’s search for a new centre-back, with two names thought to be on the club’s summer shortlist.
Sporting Director Paul Mitchell is looking to lower the age of what’s become a slightly ageing pool of centre-backs on Tyneside.
With Fabian Schar (33) and Dan Burn (32) both in the twilight years of their respective careers, it makes sense that Newcastle pursue a younger centre-back able to partner Sven Botman in years to come.
Following Martin Hardy’s exclusive for The Times last night claiming Liverpool’s Jarrell Quansah is a target for Newcastle this summer, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has confirmed our interest in the 22-year-old.
Though Quansah only signed a new deal with Liverpool back in October, it’s understood that Newcastle could test the waters with a £30m offer, although Romano insists we are yet to make contact or hold talks over a deal.
As for Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen, the 19-year-old has steadily become one of the top defensive prospects in the Premier League this season, and starred for Spain in their recent Nations League clash against the Netherlands.
A £50m release clause will no doubt be triggered by one of Europe’s top clubs this summer and Fabrizio Romano reports that Newcastle aren’t too optimistic about their chances, feeling this will be a ‘difficult’ deal to complete.
According to the Italian, none other than Real Madrid are showing an interest in the 19-year-old, who could anchor their defence alongside Raul Asencio for the next decade.
The Cherries defender even highlighted Los Blancos’ interest in him, reportedly saying “Real Madrid? It’s an honour when such a big club is interested in me.”
🚨⚪️⚫️ Jarell Quansah, on Newcastle shortlist for centre back position ahead of the summer transfer window as @Mhardysport reported.
No contacts/talks yet, but he’s on the list.
Dean Huijsen, another name appreciated but Newcastle feel it will be difficult to get deal done. pic.twitter.com/afSHY7NpVF
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 27, 2025
With Newcastle seemingly dedicated to sign a defender this summer, you wouldn’t blame the club for moving on from Marc Guehi if last August’s antics continue.
After four bids were rejected by Crystal Palace last year, with Steve Parish reportedly taking great pride in dragging Newcastle along in negotiations, it’s perhaps a welcome sight to see the Toon to target other defenders that seem more attainable.
Earlier this month, The Mirror reported that Liverpool were interested in bringing Guehi to Merseyside, suggesting the Reds may see Guehi as a potential Virgil van Dijk replacement should the Dutchman decide against signing a new deal.