“I’m hearing from sources” – Sky Sports reporter drops “behind-the-scenes” Newcastle update as top player nears switch
Newcastle United’s efforts to strengthen their defense in the ongoing summer transfer window have led them to explore multiple options, with Bayer Leverkusen’s Edmond Tapsoba emerging as a potential target. According to Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie, the Magpies have shown interest in Tapsoba as they continue their pursuit of Crystal Palace and England star Marc Guehi. Downie shared this update via his YouTube channel, shedding light on Newcastle’s evolving transfer strategy.
Throughout the summer, Newcastle has been heavily linked with Marc Guehi, who delivered an impressive performance for England at Euro 2024. Despite Newcastle’s persistent attempts to secure his signature, negotiations with Crystal Palace have dragged on, with the London club maintaining a high valuation for their prized defender. As the saga extends into the final stages of the transfer window, Newcastle has wisely devised contingency plans, with Edmond Tapsoba being one of the primary alternatives.
Tapsoba, a key figure in Bayer Leverkusen’s formidable defense last season, played a significant role in helping Xabi Alonso’s side achieve an invincible Bundesliga campaign. The Burkina Faso international made 28 appearances for the German champions, showcasing his defensive prowess. While he wasn’t always the first-choice option, often rotating responsibilities with teammates like Jonathan Tah and Odilon Kossounou, Tapsoba’s reputation in European football continues to grow. His name has been floated as a more appealing option compared to Chelsea’s Axel Disasi, another defender who has been linked with Newcastle.
As it stands, Newcastle’s pursuit of Marc Guehi appears to be gaining momentum. The long-standing negotiations have seen Crystal Palace reject multiple bids from Newcastle, each falling short of the £65 million valuation set by Palace chairman Steve Parish. Despite the setbacks, recent reports suggest that Newcastle is edging closer to meeting this valuation, potentially outpacing rivals like Liverpool and Manchester United, who have also shown interest in Guehi but have yet to make formal offers.
Keith Downie provided further insight into the situation, revealing that Newcastle has initiated talks with Bayer Leverkusen regarding Tapsoba’s availability. While sources in Germany indicate that the defender is not for sale, and Tapsoba has reportedly committed to staying at Leverkusen for the upcoming season, Newcastle’s interest remains active. Downie mentioned that discussions have taken place behind the scenes, suggesting that the Magpies are leaving no stone unturned in their search for defensive reinforcements.
With the transfer window drawing to a close, Newcastle’s pursuit of Guehi may finally be reaching its conclusion. Downie expressed “cautious optimism” that an agreement could be struck between Newcastle and Crystal Palace by the weekend, potentially bringing an end to one of the summer’s most protracted transfer sagas. As the Magpies work to finalize the deal, their interest in Edmond Tapsoba serves as a reminder of the club’s determination to bolster their defensive ranks, ensuring they have multiple options in place as they prepare for the upcoming Premier League season.
