Newcastle now stepping up interest in “monster” defender who could join instead of Bade

Newcastle United are intensifying their efforts to secure the signing of a highly-regarded £98k-per-week defender, described as a “monster,” who may be available for a reasonable price this month.

This pursuit comes as the January transfer window nears its conclusion, with Newcastle yet to make any additions to their squad. The club initially targeted Abdukodir Khusanov, but financial fair play restrictions reportedly hindered their ability to complete the deal, allowing Manchester City to swoop in and secure the player.

Khusanov’s agent, Garait Khasbiullin, revealed that Newcastle’s late approach and financial constraints played a significant role in their failure to land the player.

He explained that Manchester City applied considerable pressure on Lens, making it difficult for Newcastle to present a comparable offer. Additionally, Lens’ financial requirements further complicated the situation, underscoring the importance of acting swiftly and strategically in the transfer market.

Given these challenges, Newcastle are now focusing on securing low-cost but high-impact players to reinforce their backline. Reports from Spain indicate that the club has turned its attention to Barcelona’s Eric Garcia.

The Catalan giants are reportedly willing to let the 24-year-old defender depart for an affordable fee this month, making him an appealing option for Newcastle. However, competition for Garcia’s signature is expected, with Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa also expressing interest in the player.

The Magpies have also faced setbacks in their pursuit of Sevilla’s Loic Bade, leaving Garcia as their primary defensive target. Comparisons between Garcia and Bade suggest that the Barcelona defender could be a superior signing. Both players excel in their defensive abilities, but Garcia brings additional strengths that make him stand out.

Statistical analysis highlights key differences between the two players. Bade performs slightly better in tackles and interceptions, but Garcia excels in other defensive metrics such as blocks, where he ranks significantly higher.

While both players are adept at winning aerial duels, Garcia’s offensive contributions set him apart. He ranks in the 99th percentile for non-penalty goals among defenders, underlining his ability to make an impact in the opposition’s penalty area. His recent Champions League goal against Benfica exemplifies this capability.

Additionally, Garcia’s proficiency in possession adds another dimension to his game. He has been praised for his ball-handling skills by football talent scout Jacek Kulig, further reinforcing his value as a versatile defender.

These qualities make him a strong candidate to bolster Newcastle’s defensive line while also providing an attacking threat when needed.

Given Newcastle’s ongoing concerns with profit and sustainability rules, the potential to secure Garcia at an affordable price represents a strategic opportunity. The club must navigate its financial limitations carefully, and acquiring a proven player like Garcia without breaking the bank aligns with their broader objectives.

His age and experience in top-flight football, including his time at Manchester City and Barcelona, add to his appeal as a long-term investment for the club.

This potential deal highlights Newcastle’s proactive approach to the transfer market, even amid financial constraints. By targeting players like Garcia, the club demonstrates its commitment to strengthening its squad while adhering to the rules governing their spending.

If Newcastle successfully finalizes the signing of Eric Garcia, it could prove to be a shrewd move, addressing their defensive needs and enhancing their overall squad depth.

As the transfer window approaches its final stages, Newcastle’s pursuit of Garcia will be closely watched. The outcome of this deal could have significant implications for the Magpies’ season and their ability to compete at the highest level.

For now, the focus remains on securing a player who can contribute both defensively and offensively, ensuring Newcastle continues its upward trajectory in domestic and international competitions.