Newcastle open talks to sign “extraordinary” £42m+ centre-back this summer

Newcastle United are well in contention to finish in the Champions League slots and could strike on the market to bring in one of the world’s most recognisable defenders, per a report.

Newcastle look to cement themselves among Premier League elite

Eddie Howe has done a fantastic job at Newcastle and is rightfully adored by their fanatical support, having ended their 56-year trophy drought a matter of weeks ago against Liverpool at Wembley.

Now, the Magpies are firmly in the hunt for a top-five finish and look odds-on to secure a Champions League place for next season, which, in turn, could see a raft of exciting reinforcements targeted to bolster PIF’s mission to establish their side among the elite.

With the potential to make a statement, Newcastle are in the mix to sign Manchester City star Jack Grealish. However, Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur also want to buy the veteran England international.

Arriving at the Etihad Stadium in a £100 million deal back in 2021, it feels unlikely that the Citizens would look to recoup anywhere near that level of fee for his services.

Offering encouragement, Newcastle find themselves in pole position to sign Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford and may be able to do a deal worth in the region of £50 million.

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Newcastle consolidated their position in the top four with a commanding win over Crystal Palace.

Attacking reinforcements appear to be on the agenda in the North East, especially when considering the depth they will need balance continental football and Premier League duties next term.

The same train of thought applies to the other end of the field, and Newcastle are now eyeing a potential move for a star could garner global attention.

Newcastle look open talks to sign Bayern Munich’s Kim Min-jae

According to Foot Mercato, Newcastle have made contact over a move for Bayern Munich’s Kim Min-jae after reaching out to his representatives to express their interest. Chelsea are also in the mix for the South Korea international, who is said to be open to a summer departure following his £42.8 million move to the Allianz Arena in 2023.

Labelled “extraordinary” by Park Ji-Sung, the 28-year-old has made 42 appearances across all competitions this campaign, registering three goals in total.

Fabian Schar has recently signed a new deal at St James’ Park and Jamaal Lascelles has another year than initially thought as club captain, but Kim would presumably seek to be first choice with the skipper used more as a depth option again.

Bringing leadership and quality in central defence, the former Napoli man is the sort of player that could take the Magpies up a level or two in their hunt to consistently challenge for major honours under Howe’s stewardship should they be able to push a deal over the line.