Sources: Newcastle now on red alert to sign ‘the best defender in Ligue 1’

Newcastle United are seriously considering a move for Monaco’s Wilfried Singo in the upcoming summer transfer window, with club officials increasingly confident that the Ligue 1 side may be open to negotiations.

Sources close to the situation indicate that the Magpies are preparing to test the waters for the Ivorian defender, who has emerged as a prime target to bolster Eddie Howe’s backline.

Defensive depth became a pressing concern for Newcastle midway through the season after Lloyd Kelly’s loan move to Juventus, which includes a mandatory £20 million purchase clause.

With the need for fresh competition at center-back, Howe has identified Singo as an ideal candidate to challenge the likes of Dan Burn, Fabian Schar, Sven Botman, and Jamaal Lascelles.

The latter recently extended his contract by an additional year, ensuring he remains at St James’ Park beyond this season.

However, the club is determined to reinforce their defensive options as they aim to build on a successful campaign that saw them lift the Carabao Cup and push for Champions League qualification.

Scouts dispatched to monitor Singo’s performances for Monaco have returned with glowing reviews, further fueling Newcastle’s interest. The 24-year-old has been a standout performer in Ligue 1, earning praise as one of the division’s best defenders thanks to his consistency, athleticism, and tactical intelligence.

His ability to play both as a center-back and right-back adds valuable versatility—a trait Howe highly values as he looks to elevate his squad’s quality.

Singo himself is reportedly eager to make the leap to the Premier League, viewing it as the next step in his career. Having previously attracted interest from English clubs such as Arsenal, Liverpool, and Tottenham before his move to Monaco, the Ivorian now sees Newcastle as a viable destination.

His ambition aligns perfectly with the Magpies’ project, making a potential deal increasingly plausible.

Monaco’s willingness to negotiate stems partly from their agreement to sign Eric Dier on a free transfer this summer once his Bayern Munich contract expires.

This could pave the way for Singo’s departure, with Newcastle sensing an opportunity to secure his services for a fee in the region of £15 million—a figure considered a bargain given his Champions League experience and six goal contributions this season.

However, competition for his signature is expected to be fierce. Singo’s affordable valuation has put several European clubs on high alert, including Serie A sides familiar with his capabilities from his time at Torino.

Newcastle must act decisively to fend off rival interest, particularly as they also explore other defensive targets like Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi.

Financial flexibility could play a crucial role in their pursuit. Recent reports suggest the Magpies may divert funds originally earmarked for PSV Eindhoven’s Johan Bakayoko, whose dip in form has cooled their interest, toward strengthening the defense instead.

This shift in strategy underscores the importance of securing a player of Singo’s caliber.

With his blend of physicality, technical skill, and adaptability, Singo represents exactly the type of signing that could help Newcastle transition into consistent top-four contenders.

As the summer window approaches, all eyes will be on whether the Magpies can finalize a deal for a defender who could become a cornerstone of their ambitious project.

The coming months will be pivotal, but one thing is clear: Wilfried Singo is firmly on Newcastle’s radar, and the club is prepared to make a compelling case to bring him to the Premier League.