Newcastle United were linked with strengthening their central defensive options during the summer transfer window.
Joachim Andersen and Harry Maguire were touted as targets but FFP limitations did not stretch that far.
It was typical then, that Sven Botman would get injured.
While there has recently been reasonably positive news on the Dutchman and special mention must be paid to Jamaal Lascelles for his performances since standing in, Botman’s absence has underlined just how light Newcastle are at centre-back.
To that end, names have been linked.
Indeed, England and Crystal Palace star Marc Guehi has been tipped for a move to St James’ Park but there has now been a fresh update.
Marc Guehi transfer news: Newcastle latest
According to 90 Min, Newcastle are among those tracking the 23-year-old.
Manchester United and Tottenham are also interested but the report adds Guehi has little plans to leave Palace in January.
Having worked his way into the England set-up ahead of Euro 2024, the defender is keen to ensure he is playing enough football to bank his place in the squad before the tournament in Germany.
Marc Guehi to Newcastle: Perfect transfer target
At 23, the defender would represent a long-term investment but still has amassed a lot of experience in the Premier League and with England.
Having shown a willingness to develop too, he looks the perfect type of signing for Eddie Howe and PIF, who have largely targeted younger players on the up since the takeover.
Hailed as an “absolute tank” by former England U21 teammate Josef Bursik in 2021, the idea of him working under Howe is a very exciting one, particularly in a position Newcastle will need strengthening.
Fabian Schar, of course, cannot go on forever and will one day need replacing.
Still, it’s understandable why Guehi would not want to risk missing out on the Euros, so perhaps its one to revisit this summer.
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