Newcastle United have enquired about the availability of Liverpool and Barcelona defensive target Mohamed Simakan.
Newcastle United are keen on reinforcing their defence before the end of the transfer window and according to Florian Plettenberg, the Magpies are exploring an opportunity to sign RB Leipzig defensive mainstay Mohamed Simakan.
The French defender came up the ranks at RC Strasbourg and made a name for himself while playing for their first team before securing a move to RB Leipzig in the summer of 2021. He has since gone from strength to strength and has established himself as one of the mainstays at the German club.
The 24-year-old’s consistent performances for Leipzig haven’t gone unnoticed. While he still has three years left on his deal, multiple top clubs are keen on prising him away. Newcastle are one of the clubs that have enquired about the versatile French defender who can feature as a centre-back, a right-back, and a wing-back.
Eddie Howe keen on defensive reinforcement
The Magpies want to reinforce their backline on a priority basis. With Jamaal Lascelles and Sven Botman still out injured, they only have two out-and-out centre-backs in their squad. Eddie Howe wants more competition for a place in his team as well as adequate depth.
While they have been linked with quite a few world-class centre-backs, they haven’t had much success yet. With little time left in the transfer window, the Magpies are exploring a potential deal to sign Simakan before the deadline.
They have knocked on the doors of Leipzig to learn more about the conditions of a deal. The report suggests the German club are open to negotiating his departure as long as there is a suitable offer on the table. Given how important it is for Newcastle to sign a few defenders before the end of the window, they could soon make moves to bring him to the club.
Barcelona and Liverpool are also keen on Simakan
The Magpies surely have the financial strength to sign the 24-year-old but they could face significant competition from Barcelona and Liverpool for the services of the French defender.
The Catalan giants need depth in both central defence and full-back, Simakan could be an ideal fit for them and they are considering making a move but their financial situation will make it quite difficult.
Meanwhile, the Reds have also been linked with Simakan for some time now. They want a new centre-back and he is at the top of their wishlist. With Joe Gomez’s future uncertain, he could be a great replacement. But, they will have to hurry with Newcastle pushing and time running out.
