Werder Bremen youngster Karim Coulibaly.placeholder image
Werder Bremen youngster Karim Coulibaly. | Getty Images
Newcastle United transfers: Newcastle and Chelsea are two clubs that have been linked with Karim Coulibaly.
Newcastle United are reportedly in discussions over a move for one of the most promising young talents in German football.
According to German outlet Bild, the Magpies are one of four major European clubs showing ‘concrete interest’ in Germany Under-19 centre-back, Karim Coulibaly.
At just 18 years old, Coulibaly has established himself as a regular starter for Bundesliga side Werder Bremen, making 22 appearances across all competitions this season. After rising through the youth ranks at Hamburg, the defender joined Werder’s academy in 2024 and signed his first professional deal last summer.
‘Outstanding’ £39m-rated star linked with NUFC
He has quickly earned the trust of head coach Daniel Thioune, who recently said: “We have great confidence in Karim. He is a very good player who is now set to make his starting debut. He is good in one-on-one situations and has a decent height. His build-up play is also outstanding. He is already very composed for his young age. He didn’t let himself get stressed during pre-season and always found solutions. I’m looking forward to seeing him play.”
Coulibaly is currently under contract at Bremen until 2029, and while Newcastle have reportedly held initial talks, they face competition from Chelsea, Marseille, and Napoli. Werder Bremen are said to value the defender at approximately €45 million (£39 million), though no official bids have been submitted yet.
Defensive uncertainty for NUFC
Newcastle toyed with the idea of bolstering their defence in the January transfer window but ultimately opted to keep their powder dry until the summer, with the assumption that the upcoming window will provide more opportunities and better value for money.
Newcastle will be in the market for a centre-back after offloading Jamaal Lascelles to Leicester City in January. Emil Krafth and Fabian Schar are also out of contract as things stand in the summer, while Dan Burn’s deal expires next year.
Sven Botman has recently signed a new long-term deal, but his injury woes have continued this season. He is currently facing a spell on the sidelines following surgery on a facial injury picked up during Sunday’s defeat to Sunderland.
Malick Thiaw helped freshen up an ageing back line last summer, but the club are aware that further reinforcements are needed at centre-back.
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