Newcastle set their sights on signing familiar player who will cost more than Sandro Tonali

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Newcastle United are going to sign a centre-back in the summer of 2025, having failed to do so during the previous two transfer windows.

The summer of 2024 ended with Newcastle United missing out on Marc Guehi. The Magpies committed so much time to their pursuit of Guehi, but were unable to strike a deal with Crystal Palace.

There was no fresh approach for him in January, with Newcastle trying to sign Abdukodir Khusanov instead. Paul Mitchell came close, but the 20-year-old defender moved to Manchester City instead.

Newcastle also wanted Juma Bah and Vitor Reis, but missed out to Man City again.

Now the Toon recruitment team are looking at alternatives.

Newcastle United keeping tabs on Dean Huijsen

That could lead them to Bournemouth, with TBR Football’s chief correspondent Graeme Bailey telling Geordie Boot Boys that Newcastle United are keeping an eye on Dean Huijsen’s situation at the Vitality Stadium.

The 19-year-old is enjoying a sensational debut campaign in the Premier League, but has a release clause that could allow him to leave the Cherries after just one year.

“Newcastle will be bringing in a central defender this summer, we are almost certain,” Bailey said.

“We know they have lost Lloyd Kelly to Juventus and Jamaal Lascelles could also be leaving when his contract expires.

“They will go into the summer with a healthy budget, although finishing in the Champions League places will clearly bolster that.

“Huijsen is a player the club looked at closely before he joined Bournemouth. They know him well and have been impressed with him since he arrived at Bournemouth – but they are not alone.

“Bournemouth don’t want to sell, but the player has a clause which will be active and that is over £55million. That is a lot of money to pay in one-go.”

Huijsen would become one of Newcastle United’s most expensive signings ever

If Newcastle are serious about signing Huijsen this summer then Paul Mitchell is going to have to get his chequebook out.

The teenage centre-back will cost more than £55million, which means he will cost more than Sandro Tonali. The midfield maestro arrived in the summer of 2023 from AC Milan for £55million, becoming Newcastle’s second most expensive signing ever.

But he would be replaced by Huijsen, who was available on a much cheaper deal last summer.

Newcastle were linked with Huijsen, but it was Bournemouth who struck a deal. They bought him from Juventus for an initial £12.6million, and he has proven to be an absolute bargain.

The Magpies missed out on an incredible deal, and could now pay the price if they decide to move for Huijsen this summer.

Finances aside, he would be a welcome addition to Eddie Howe’s squad.