Emil Krafth’s injury has reinforced Newcastle United’s need for defensive reinforcements in 2025.
Newcastle United tried and failed to address that during the summer. The Magpies relentlessly pursued Marc Guehi, only for their bid to fall short.
It has left Newcastle short of centre-back options. Emil Krafth is Fabian Schar’s backup on the right, while Lloyd Kelly is providing cover for Dan Burn on the left.
They are the only senior centre-backs that are fit right now, with youngster Alex Murphy the next in line during the continued absence of Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles.
Given how stretched Newcastle are, they will almost certainly address their centre-back problems in 2025 – either in January or the summer.
Newcastle United looking at Jonathan Tah
Guehi remains on Newcastle’s radar, while Toon officials are looking at alternatives to the England international.
Newcastle have scouted Abdukodir Khusanov, while TBR Football insider Graeme Bailey has now told Geordie Boot Boys that the Magpies are also looking at Bayer Leverkusen defender Jonathan Tah.
His Bayer Leverkusen contract is due to expire in 2025, with the German centre-back set to leave the Bundesliga champions at some point next year.
“He’s a fascinating one, and someone who is available on a free next summer,” he said.
“A lot of people in the game think he is one of the best centre-backs in Europe at the moment. He had a brilliant Euros for Germany.
“He was all set to join Bayern Munich in the summer, but then the deal didn’t happen.
“He’s back on the radar of a lot of clubs and I understand he will consider a move to the Premier League.
“Newcastle would be one of those clubs considering him. He would be a good option for Newcastle, even if he would not be a long-term solution to their problem.
“He’s a high calibre defender who a lot of Premier League clubs are taking notice of.”
Newcastle would face major competition for Tah
If Newcastle are willing to wait until the summer, they could land Tah on a free transfer. That would allow more money to be invested elsewhere, which would be hugely beneficial.
Alternatively, there is the possibility of a January exit, which could see Tah leave Bayer Leverkusen for a bargain fee.
That could also appeal to Newcastle, who know they need to sign a centre-back and a winger, whilst also ensuring they continue to comply with PSR.
Whichever avenue the Magpies go down, the big issue with pursuing Tah could be the competition. As Bailey says, numerous Premier League clubs are keeping an eye on him ahead of 2025. Elsewhere, the 28-year-old has been linked with La Liga giants Real Madrid and Barcelona.
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