Newcastle have not yet bid for ‘leader’ but deal could go down to the wire

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Newcastle United’s defence last season was the bedrock upon which they launched their journey back into the Champions League.

No team in the Premier League conceded fewer goals than Eddie Howe’s side as Newcastle made it back into the big time.

Clearly, there is little need to change things on that front.

Still, a lack of depth is a real worry.

Behind Fabian Schar and Sven Botman, none of the options in central defence look particularly convincing.

Howe has spoken positively about Jamaal Lascelles but having to rely on him in the event of an injury is slightly concerning.

Indeed, Schar is dealing with a slight fitness issue, causing concern ahead of the new season, which is why the links with Joachim Andersen are interesting.

Newcastle are yet to move for Joachim Andersen

Hailed as a “leader” and someone who has seen his long-range passing praised in the past, Anderson would be a logical long-term heir for Schar in the right-sided central defender area.

Still, it appears the club are yet to move for the Crystal Palace defender.

Both Tottenham and Newcastle have been linked with a swoop this summer but, according to Alan Nixon, no offer has yet come in.

“No bid for Andersen at this point,” wrote Nixon on Twitter [14:49] on 06/08/2023.

Palace are in a strong position with the defender still under contract for another three years, with the 27-year-old recently hinting he was planning to stay at Selhurst Park for the coming season.

Certainly one to watch

Ideally, Newcastle would have made their move for a new defender by now with the Premier League season so close.

Still, that does not mean they will not eventually bid for Andersen.

Earlier this week, Ed Aarons of The Guardian suggested it could be one that goes to the wire. With Palace seemingly under little pressure to sell right now, it will be interesting to see how it develops.