Newcastle United are all set to battle it out with Tottenham Hotspur for the signature of AS Roma defender Roger Ibanez.
According to a report by Fichajes, Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur are both keen on having Roger Ibanez in their ranks. The 24-year-old centre-back has been putting in some impressive performances in the ongoing season, and there is a lot of interest from across Europe in his services.
Ibanez came into the limelight while playing for Atalanta. His performances attracted the attention of AS Roma, who signed him in the winter of 2020. The Brazil international had quite an impressive loan spell, and his move was made permanent in the summer of 2021.
The 24-year-old has been an important part of Jose Mourinho’s team. He was integral to their success in the UEFA Conference League last season. And, Ibanez has hardly put a foot wrong in the ongoing season. Meanwhile, his market value currently stands at €30 million.
The Brazil international has been involved in 44 matches and has three goals to his name in the ongoing season. While his contract at the club runs until the summer of 2025, the 24-year-old could be on the move in the summer given the amount of interest in his services. Meanwhile, AS Roma value him at around €30 million.
Atletico Madrid are one of the clubs keen on having him in their ranks. However, they are restricted due to financial fair play rules and might not be able to afford him. Meanwhile, Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur are ready to battle it out for Ibanez’s signatures.
The Magpies are keen on further bolstering their squad ahead of next season. Eddie Howe’s men are likely to feature in the Champions League next season. And, he wants to add more quality to his ranks to be competitive enough in both Premier League and UCL.
While Newcastle’s defenders have done a great job in the ongoing season, they can surely add more quality to their rotation and the arrival of Ibanez will surely help their cause. However, Tottenham will make their life difficult, the London club are desperate to improve their defence ahead of next season.
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Spurs are on the lookout for a new centre-back who can directly slot into starting XI. And, the Roma defender can be a great fit for the club. However, it will be interesting to see if Jose Mourinho is willing to let him leave irrespective of the price tag.
