All the talk at Newcastle United right now is about midfield reinforcements, but centre-back is another position that Eddie Howe is hoping to strengthen in this summer.
Newcastle are looking to sign a right-sided defender who will provide competition for Fabian Schar – and potentially even replace him depending on his age.
Given the focus on deals for the likes of Sandro Tonali and James Maddison, there has not been a lot of talk about defensive incomings as of late. However, a new report from the Daily Mail has provided details about a Premier League player who Newcastle could try to sign.
Newcastle ask Crystal Palace about Joachim Andersen
According to the Daily Mail, Newcastle have made their first move to try to sign Joachim Andersen from Crystal Palace. The report states that the club have launched an enquiry for the 27-year-old, as they look to discover if the Eagles would be interested in selling.
The report adds that money could be a stumbling block, with Andersen’s asking price potentially plunging this deal in doubt. However, they do not state how much it would take for Palace to sell the defender.
He joined the Premier League side in 2021, costing £17million from Lyon, where he was teammates with Newcastle talisman Bruno Guimaraes.
Bruno has adapted brilliantly to life in the Premier League, just like Andersen. He has spent three seasons in England, having also enjoyed a loan spell with Fulham during the infamous COVID season that was played behind closed doors.
While Fulham went down that season, Andersen was very impressive, and has continued to play at a high level for Palace where he was formed a brilliant partnership with Marc Guehi.
Newcastle target very similar to Fabian Schar
Andersen, who has been described as a ‘leader‘, is 27-years-old, so should be coming into the peak of his powers. He is four years younger than Schar, who he would be competing with if he did move to St James’ Park.
They are similar in style. Both players are mean when they have to be, but are very laid back in possession and boast a glorious passing range that can prove to be an attacking weapon.
In that respect, Andersen could be a great addition. He would be a like-for-like replacement for Schar, which could be ideal with Eddie Howe needing to rotate his squad more next season due to the increase in games.
However, it feels unlikely that Palace will want to sell one of their star players for a modest fee, and it is difficult to envision Newcastle going all out for the Denmark international.
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