Who is Newcastle-linked Mohamed Simakan? The latest defender on Eddie Howe’s defensive wishlist

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Newcastle are reportedly interested in signing RB Leipzig defender Mohamed Simakan, here is everything you need to know about the Toon target.

Newcastle United’s desire to sign a centre-back has been one of the stories of the transfer window this summer.

The saga surrounding Newcastle’s failed attempts to sign Marc Guehi, has now seen the Magpies focus on more viable alternatives, registering an interest in the likes of Joe Gomez and Alex Diasi, they however are still yet to secure a new defender.

Eddie Howe’s desperate search for defensive reinforcements has seen the Toon Army turn their attention to the Bundesliga, with Newcastle reportedly eyeing a move for RB Leipzig’s Mohamed Simakan.

So with that being said, here is everything you need to know about Toon’s latest defensive target.

• READ MORE: Newcastle confirmed signings, departures, loans & released players in the summer transfer window 2024

Mohamed Simakan age

Mohamed Sanousy Simakan is currently 24-years-old at the time of writing. He was born on May 3rd 2000.

Mohamed Simakan nationality

Simakan is French having been born in Marseille. Both his parents are of Guinean descent.

The RB Leipzig man represents France at international level and has featured for Les Blues at youth level.

Mohamed Simakan religion

Simakan is Muslim. The defender was famously part of a Bundesliga game in 2022, which was stopped for a few minutes so Simakan and the other Muslim players on the pitch could break their Ramadan fast on the field.

Mohamed Simakan height

Mohamed Simakan stands at approximately 6ft 2 inches tall (1.87m), which makes him an aerial presence in both boxes.

Mohamed Simakan position

Simakan is a very versatile defender who is able to play at both centre-back and right-back.

Mohamed Simakan style of play

Simakan is a very aggressive, front foot defender who also loves to bomb on and get involved in the final third.

The Frenchman is extremely strong when it comes to 1v1 duels, with his intense defending being a key part of RB Leipzig’s high-pressing system. His pace and physicality allows the German outfit to play an aggressive high line, which is a key aspect of the Red Bull model.

He is also very good in possession, regularly carrying the ball up the field whether at centre-back or right-back. Simakan’s versatility could also provide Eddie Howe with some much-needed tactical flexibility.

Mohamed Simakan stats

Simakan has featured for two clubs during is senior career, he is yet to feature for France at senior level however.