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Liverpool in the ‘driving seat’ to win £50m transfer race despite Newcastle United talks

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Newcastle United are determined to sign a centre-back this summer.

It is something they have tried to do during the previous two transfer windows, only for the Newcastle United recruitment team to fall short.

Newcastle wanted Marc Guehi last summer, but could not agree a fee with Crystal Palace.

In January, Newcastle almost signed Abdukodir Khusanov. However, that deal collapsed due to the Magpies’ PSR position, with Khusanov heading to Manchester City.

The search for a right-sided centre-back continues, with Newcastle interested in Dean Huijsen.

He is set to leave Bournemouth due to a £50million release clause in his contract, and Newcastle have spoken to Huijsen’s representatives about a move to St James’ Park.

AFC Bournemouth v Fulham FC - Premier League
Photo by Robin Jones – AFC Bournemouth/AFC Bournemouth via Getty Images

Newcastle United not favourites to sign Dean Huijsen

The 20-year-old is attracting a lot of attention, with Chelsea preparing a big offer for Huijsen.

There has been a lot of speculation regarding a move to Stamford Bridge, but it could be Liverpool who are leading the race to secure his signature.

That is according to TBR Football’s chief correspondent Graeme Bailey, who has spoken to Geordie Boot Boys about Huijsen’s future.

“My understanding is that Chelsea are not the favourites for Huijsen, as it stands,” he said.

“Nor are Newcastle United. From what I understand, Liverpool are in the driving seat to sign him if he stays in England. But it is not guaranteed that he will stay in England.

“I don’t think Champions League will have too big a bearing. He will choose the club that is right for him.”

Newcastle United linked with multiple Bournemouth players

While Newcastle United might struggle to bring Huijsen to Tyneside, he is not the only Bournemouth star who the Magpies are interested in.

Antoine Semenyo is a Newcastle target, with Howe keen to bring in a right winger as well as a centre-back.

Elsewhere, Newcastle have discussed Justin Kluivert, while Illia Zabarnyi is on the Magpies’ radar too.

Just like it is frustrating for Toon fans when their top players are linked with exits, it must be just as annoying for the Bournemouth faithful that there is talk of their team being ripped apart.

While it serves as no consolation, the rumours of so many exits is a testament to their recruitment and performances this season.