Newcastle turn to defender Prem top dogs love as transfer target stalls

Newcastle have reportedly turned to a defender that the Premier League top dogs love after a deal for their primary transfer target stalled.

The Magpies are already close to signing full-back Kieran Trippier from Atletico Madrid, but further additions at the back are of course on the cards. Along with Norwich’s, their leaky defence has conceded the most goals in the Premier League.

Next on the list of potential recruits for the Saudi-backed hierarchy was Sven Botman. However, Lille do not want to sell the centre-back in the winter window.

As such, attention from St James’ Park must be directed elsewhere. And according to The Telegraph, one option is Sevilla’s Diego Carlos.

The 28-year-old has stood out as one of the best defenders in La Liga since moving from French side Nantes in 2019.

And his performances on the European stage has been eye-catching too. He was a key part of the side that won the Europa League in 2020.

Sevilla then went on to be narrowly knocked out at the last-16 stage of the Champions League by Borussia Dortmund last season. Carlos was an ever-present during that campaign.

It comes as no surprise then that Man United, City, Liverpool, Arsenal and Tottenham have all been linked with him in the past.

The Brazilian’s contract runs until June 2024 and he would likely cost in the region of £30-40m.

Newcastle to outbid Lyon for new Iranian striker

Zenit Striker Sardar Azmoun will leave in January as Lyon and Newcastle United are set to battle for the striker

Another Botman alternative is Tottenham’s Joe Rodon, who has previously been linked with a loan move.

Eddie Howe is said to be considering the Wales international. But he also wants a proven elite level centre-half to help guide them away from the relegation zone.

Newcastle are hopeful to complete their business swiftly in January, with a new striker who would deputise for the injured Callum Wilson also on the agenda.

Newcastle set for striker swoop

On that front, the club are considering making a late move to hijack a transfer for Sardar Azmoun of Zenit Saint Petersburg.

The Iran international is in the final six months of his contract with the Russian club. He has already agreed personal terms to join Lyon, but there is no consensus over the transfer fee between the clubs.

Therefore, the Daily Mailare reportingthat Newcastle are considering swooping in to hijack Azmoun’s transfer to the French side.

Lyon do not want to pay above £3m to take Azmoun in January. Newcastle would be able to outbid them if they feel it is worthwhile.

Azmoun’s form suggests he would be good value for money. At 27 years old, he is in the prime of his career and has 10 goals from 21 games in all competitions so far this season. Among those was a strike against Chelsea in the Champions League.

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