Exclusive: Newcastle Working to Sign £70m ‘Superstar’ Alongside Elanga

Newcastle United Remain Keen on Marc Guehi as Centre-Back Priority Emerges

Newcastle United are still pushing hard to secure the services of Crystal Palace star Marc Guehi this summer, with manager Eddie Howe and key decision-makers at St James’ Park identifying the centre-back position as their next area of focus. Sources at GIVEMESPORT have revealed that, following efforts to strengthen their frontline, the Magpies are turning their attention toward reinforcing their defensive ranks — and Guehi is firmly at the top of their wish list.

The North East club has already been active in the market, notably stepping up their pursuit of Nottingham Forest winger Anthony Elanga. Newcastle recently tabled an improved £55 million bid for the Sweden international, underlining their intent to add pace and flair to their attacking unit. But with Champions League football on the horizon and increased squad depth required across the board, the club’s hierarchy is also determined to secure top-quality reinforcements at the back.

In addition to their pursuit of Elanga, Newcastle have made moves to plan for the future, landing teenage talent Antonio Cordero on a free transfer following his contract expiry at Málaga. Cordero’s decision to reject heavyweights like Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Porto in favour of joining Newcastle was a significant coup for Howe’s project — and further evidence that the Magpies are building a long-term vision combining both youth and experience.

Guehi Still a Priority Despite Previous Obstacles

Despite having a previous £70 million bid for Guehi rejected during the January transfer window — when Spurs attempted to lure him away from Selhurst Park — Newcastle have remained persistent admirers of the England international. With Guehi now entering the final year of his current deal at Crystal Palace, the Magpies are hopeful that the Eagles may be more willing to negotiate, especially to avoid the risk of losing him for nothing next summer.

While no agreement has been reached yet, GMS sources confirm that Newcastle have not cooled their interest and are continuing to monitor the situation closely. Guehi’s 44 appearances across all competitions in the 2024/25 campaign — during which he helped Palace win the FA Cup — further boosted his stock, and he is seen as an ideal addition to compete with and eventually succeed players like Fabian Schär, Dan Burn, and Sven Botman.

Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish has previously described Guehi as a “superstar,” and understandably, the Eagles are reluctant to part ways. But Newcastle view the 24-year-old as not just a short-term upgrade, but a long-term defensive leader who can anchor their backline in both domestic and European competitions.

Newcastle Explore Alternatives in Scalvini and Balerdi

While Guehi remains the preferred option, Newcastle are not putting all their eggs in one basket. Sources indicate that the club is actively scouting alternatives, aware that stiff competition and Palace’s asking price could complicate the deal. One such alternative is Giorgio Scalvini of Atalanta. The young Italian defender is highly rated in Serie A and considered a potential future star for the Azzurri. Although Atalanta are determined to keep Scalvini, Newcastle continue to monitor his availability in case negotiations for Guehi fall through.

Another player on Newcastle’s radar is Marseille’s Leonardo Balerdi. The Argentine centre-back had attracted interest from Juventus earlier in the window, but the Italian giants reportedly withdrew from the race due to concerns over his valuation. Newcastle, however, remain interested and may consider making an approach, particularly if Guehi becomes unattainable.

Busy Summer Expected at St James’ Park

After a sluggish start to the transfer window, Newcastle’s recruitment team is now working with urgency to strengthen key areas of the squad. With European competition ahead and expectations growing on Tyneside, Howe and his staff are determined to build a side capable of competing on all fronts.

Aside from defensive reinforcements, GMS also reports that Newcastle are exploring the possibility of a move for Liverpool midfielder Harvey Elliott. The 21-year-old was a standout performer for England’s U21 side during their European Championship triumph and has emerged as a potential midfield target should the Reds be open to offers.

However, for now, it appears that the club’s primary defensive focus remains firmly fixed on Marc Guehi. And while the outcome of those talks remains uncertain, Newcastle’s intent is clear — they want to bring in elite-level talent to help take the next step in their project.