Newcastle United could be preparing to say goodbye to another Swedish player this January, with reports suggesting Emil Krafth might be on his way out. According to the Shields Gazette, FC Copenhagen have shown strong interest in signing the experienced defender.
The 31-year-old, whose contract with Newcastle runs until the summer of 2026, has struggled for regular game time under Eddie Howe this season, making a mid-season move appealing for both the player and the club.
Since joining from Amiens for £5 million back in 2019, Krafth has been a dependable figure in the Magpies’ squad. Though not always a regular starter, he has earned respect for his professionalism, discipline, and versatility.
Whether deployed at right-back or covering elsewhere in defence, Krafth has consistently delivered when called upon. However, this campaign has been another frustrating one for the Swede, with just one Premier League start the 3-1 defeat to West Ham before being substituted at halftime.
FC Copenhagen, meanwhile, are looking to strengthen ahead of their next Champions League campaign. The Danish champions value Krafth’s experience and leadership qualities, which they believe could provide balance and composure to their relatively young defence.
Reports indicate that Copenhagen are open to negotiating a modest transfer fee, given the player’s limited appearances and advancing age.
For Newcastle, the decision to sell Krafth will depend heavily on the club’s defensive situation as the season progresses. Injuries have disrupted Howe’s plans at the back, forcing him to rely on makeshift options.
While selling Krafth could make financial sense, doing so in January might leave the squad short-handed during a critical stretch of fixtures. Howe has often praised Krafth’s attitude and adaptability, viewing him as a steady squad member who contributes positively to the dressing room.
But with the defender turning 32 next year and his contract entering its final 18 months, Newcastle could be tempted to cash in now rather than risk losing him for free later.
Krafth’s lack of minutes has also affected his international prospects. Once a regular in the Sweden national team alongside Newcastle teammate Alexander Isak, he has fallen out of the selection picture in recent months.
For a player with Krafth’s competitive spirit, the opportunity to return to regular first-team football and perhaps reignite his international career could be hard to turn down.
Beyond football, Krafth has previously spoken warmly about his life in the North East, describing Newcastle as “home.” In past interviews, he expressed deep affection for the club and its supporters, saying,
“It feels like home here for both me and my family. We all enjoy everything about being part of this club, and I love playing for Newcastle United.” That emotional connection could complicate any potential move, as Krafth and his family are settled and happy in the area.
Last year, Malmö were reportedly interested in bringing him back to Sweden, but Krafth chose to stay on Tyneside, even signing a short-term contract extension.
At the time, he remarked that he still had “a few years left abroad” before considering a return to his homeland. His comments reflected both loyalty to Newcastle and a strong personal drive to continue competing at the highest level of European football.
Should a January transfer materialize, it’s clear that any departure would be handled with mutual respect. Krafth’s professionalism, quiet dedication, and willingness to serve the team wherever needed have earned him admiration from teammates and supporters alike.
He represents a type of player every squad needs one who puts the club before himself, works hard behind the scenes, and steps up when called upon.
For Newcastle fans, losing Krafth would bring mixed feelings. Many would understand his desire for more playing time, especially at this stage of his career, but there would also be a genuine appreciation for his contribution during his six years at the club.
He joined during a transitional period and remained loyal through both challenging and successful times under Howe’s leadership.
If he does depart for Copenhagen, it would likely be seen as a move that benefits all parties. The player gains a new challenge and a realistic chance to play regularly again, while Newcastle can free up wages and perhaps open the door for a younger defender to come through.
Whatever happens, Krafth leaves behind a reputation for humility, reliability, and quiet strength qualities that will be remembered fondly by the St James’ Park faithful. If this winter marks the end of his Newcastle journey, he will depart with full respect and gratitude from everyone connected with the club.
