Marc Guehi alternative with £65m release clause emerges for Newcastle United - Liverpool also keen
Newcastle United are keen to bolster the defensive unit ahead of the August 31 transfer deadline
Newcastle United have listed RB Leipzig centre-back Mohamed Simakan as a potential Marc Guehi alternative, according to reports.
Toon chiefs have tried - four times - to sign the Crystal Palace and England defender. Guehi was a stalwart for the Three Lions at Euro 2024, where Gareth Southgate’s men finished as runners-up to Spain.
Various sources claim the Magpies remain locked in negotiations with Palace. The Eagles are believed to value the 24-year-old between £65million and £70million - a potential club-record fee for Newcastle.
However, alternatives have been drawn up should Palace refuse to budge on their hardball stance. Bayer Leverkusen hero Edmond Tapsoba is a name doing the rounds but has a €100million release clause in his contract - signed last September.
Chelsea misfit Axel Disasi has also been linked following an underwhelming debut campaign at Stamford Bridge. However, The Daily Mail now claim France under-21 international Simakan is on United’s radar.
The 24-year-old has emerged as one of the brightest Bundesliga centre-backs in recent seasons since moving from Strasbourg. A pacy, 6ft 2in defender, Simakan, reportedly monitored by Liverpool as well, starred in Leipzig’s 4-1 German Cup win over Essen last weekend.
But like Guehi, Leipzig, who can also promise Champions League football this season, can drive a hard bargain. Simakan has three years remaining on his current deal - which includes a £65million release clause.
Newcastle have until August 31 - next Saturday - to conclude their transfer business. As it stands, the Magpies are yet to land a major breakthrough, with Lloyd Kelly on a free transfer and youngster William Osula the only notable additions.