Newcastle United are preparing to submit a concrete offer for Hellas Verona defender Rafik Belghali, who could become Matthias Jaissle’s first signing.
Following Kieran Trippier’s departure earlier this summer, Newcastle are searching for a new right-back, and they are now in contention to sign Belghali, off the back of his performances for Algeria at the World Cup.
The 17-cap Algeria international started all four games for the African side, who were knocked out by Switzerland at the round of 32 stage, and he scored in the dramatic 3-3 final group match against Austria.
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Newcastle’s current right-back options |
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Tino Livramento |
With Trippier signing for Wolverhampton Wanderers at the end of his contract, Matthias Jaissle is light on options at right-back. Tino Livramento has been the first-choice option for the past three seasons, but the Englishman has suffered a number of injury setbacks, including a knee problem which ruled him out of the World Cup, which will be a concern. |
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Leo Shahar |
Leo Shahar is the Magpies’ only other right-back by trade, but the 19-year-old has only made one senior appearance for the Magpies, featuring as a late substitute against Qarabag in the Champions League last season. As such, additional depth will be needed. |
The full-back’s attacking attributes were on display in the Serie A last season too, averaging 1.8 successful dribbles per 90, which was 0.4 more than any other Hellas Verona player, although the Italian side were ultimately relegated to the Serie B.
It was the 24-year-old’s debut campaign in Italy, after joining from Belgian outfit KV Mechelen, for whom he made 50 appearances, chipping in with three goals and three assists.
The former KV Mechelen man remains under contract with Hellas Verona until 2029, but following relegation, a move elsewhere could be tempting, and the Magpies have now stormed into the race.
Newcastle enter contention to sign Rafik Belghali
According to a report from DZ Foot (via Sport Witness), Newcastle are poised to make a concrete offer for Belghali, with Hellas Verona expecting the formal details to arrive soon.
There is a feeling the Algerian would be keen on a move to St. James’ Park, and a deal may be relatively inexpensive, with the Italian side set to hold out for around €15m (£13m).
However, there is widespread interest from clubs in the Serie A too, with AS Roma, Juventus, Fiorentina and Napoli also among the potential suitors, so it remains to be seen whether the defender will become Jaissle’s first signing since his appointment.
Matthias Jaissle gives green light to sign Amar Dedic
Benfica star Amar Dedic is also a contender to become the first addition of the Jaissle era, with Fabrizio Romano revealing the new manager has given a move for the right-back the green light.
Dedic is said to be keen on a move to St. James’ Park, and negotiations are now underway.
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What do you make of Newcastle’s signings so far? |
Nationality |
Previous Club |
Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
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Bazoumana Toure |
Cote d’Ivoire |
Hoffenheim |
£42m |
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Aladji Bamba |
France |
Monaco |
£34m |
|
Lukas Hornicek |
Czechia |
Braga |
£25.7m |
|
Ewen Jaouen |
France |
Stade Reims |
£24m |
|
Sean Steur |
Netherlands |
Ajax |
£23m |
