Breaking News- Newcastle completes the signing of talented centre-back, transfer fees and sell-on clause agreed
Newcastle United are on the verge of completing the signing of Serbian prodigy Miodrag Pivaš. The 19-year-old is set to finalize his transfer to the North East in the next few days. According to Serbian news outlet MozzartSport, the versatile young player, who can operate both as a central defender and a holding midfielder, will commit to a long-term contract with Newcastle. Plans are already in place for him to be loaned out for the 2024/25 season, with a likely destination being either the Netherlands or Belgium.
The deal will see FK Jedinstvo receive approximately £800,000 for Pivaš, with the agreement also including a 20% sell-on clause, ensuring the Serbian club benefits from any future transfers. Pivaš is highly regarded in Serbia, where he represents the national youth teams, and he has earned high praise from former Manchester United midfielder Nemanja Matic. Matic has been quoted as saying, “He’s a huge talent with serious potential. If he continues this way, he’s on the path to the national team. In my opinion, we haven’t seen a player with such predispositions since Nemanja Vidic and Branislav Ivanovic.”
Pivaš was recently seen in Tyneside, accompanied by the club’s player liaison officer, outside St James’ Park, further fueling anticipation of his imminent signing.
In other news, Sven Botman had a stellar debut season with Newcastle United, but his second season was marred by injury. The Dutch defender faced significant fitness challenges, suffering two severe knee injuries that sidelined him for 29 games. Despite a strong start to the season, including an impressive performance against AC Milan in a 0-0 draw at San Siro while already nursing an injury, Botman struggled upon his return. Choosing to forego surgery initially, he never regained his top form and eventually sustained another ACL injury in an FA Cup match against Manchester City, which necessitated surgery.
The loss of Botman was a significant blow for Newcastle during a season plagued by numerous fitness issues. Concerns about the long-term nature of his injury have lingered, with some fearing he might not return until 2025. However, journalist Joel Bland recently provided a positive update on Botman’s recovery, indicating he is ahead of schedule. Bland shared this encouraging news on social media, also noting that Joe Willock, who ended last season injured, is expected to be fit for the start of the new season.
Newcastle can afford to be patient with Botman’s recovery, given the depth they have at centre-back. Dan Burn delivered strong performances towards the end of last season, and the club has since signed Lloyd Kelly. This depth allows Eddie Howe the luxury of not rushing Botman back into action, ensuring he fully regains his strength and fitness.
Bland’s update on Willock is equally uplifting for Newcastle fans. Willock’s season was also heavily disrupted by injuries, with an Achilles problem ruling him out of 37 games. Despite these setbacks, Willock has been spotted training alongside teammate Tino Livramento during the off-season, hinting at a return to full fitness.
With Elliot Anderson sold, Lewis Miley injured, and Sandro Tonali suspended, along with Bruno Guimaraes likely to have an extended break due to his Copa America commitments, Newcastle will need Willock back as soon as possible to bolster their midfield options as they prepare for the new season.