Newcastle to intensify negotiations for £30m “monster”, he’s just like Dean Huijsen

Newcastle United are preparing for a crucial summer in the transfer market, as manager Eddie Howe sets his sights on key reinforcements ahead of the club’s return to Champions League football.

Despite operating under the constraints of Premier League Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), the Magpies are expected to remain active, with plans to make up to four first-team signings to strengthen the squad.

Among the positions targeted for reinforcement, defense is seen as a top priority. Newcastle have rekindled their interest in Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi, who carries a £65 million valuation and has just one year remaining on his current deal.

While Guehi remains a high-profile option, there is growing belief within the club that a more financially prudent acquisition might be preferred, particularly from the club’s Saudi-backed ownership group, PIF.

Attention has now shifted toward Monaco centre-back Wilfried Singo, with Newcastle prepared to step up their pursuit of the Ivorian international.

According to multiple reports, including Caught Offside, the club is advancing discussions with the 24-year-old, who has also drawn interest from Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur, and several other European sides.

Singo’s release clause, reportedly set at €35 million (£30 million), makes him an attractive option in both performance and value.

Singo, who moved from Torino to Monaco in August 2023 for just €9 million (£7 million), has enjoyed a stellar rise in Ligue 1. His powerful and athletic presence, along with his ability to perform across multiple defensive roles, has earned him accolades.

Known for his explosive pace and imposing physicality, Singo has often been described as a “freak athlete” and a “duel monster,” earning admiration from analysts and scouts alike.

While capable of operating on the flanks, his best work has come as a central defender. His forward-thinking approach and strong ball progression abilities have helped him stand out in Europe’s top five leagues.

According to data from FBref, Singo ranks among the elite percentile of centre-backs for goal involvements, progressive passes, and progressive carries per 90 minutes.

These attributes have led many to compare him to Real Madrid’s Dean Huijsen, a player Newcastle previously targeted before the Spanish star opted for a move to the Bernabéu, turning down offers from the Premier League.

A side-by-side statistical comparison highlights just how well Singo stacks up against Huijsen:

Singo’s output clearly demonstrates his capacity to contribute at both ends of the pitch, providing composure in possession and physical dominance in defensive duels. He possesses the kind of blend Newcastle need to not only tighten up their back line but also drive attacks from deep.

Newcastle’s longstanding interest in Singo, which dates back to 2022, could give them an edge in negotiations. Although several European clubs are likely to submit offers, the player’s familiarity with Newcastle’s project and the lure of Champions League football at St. James’ Park could tip the balance.

Meanwhile, the club’s focus on defensive reinforcements underscores the urgency of adding steel and consistency to the back line.

With Guehi still under consideration and Singo potentially available at a significantly lower cost, Newcastle have positioned themselves to act swiftly in the market.

Eddie Howe will undoubtedly want to finalize key transfers early in the summer, providing enough time for integration before the new season kicks off.

With European competition looming and domestic ambitions continuing to rise, adding someone of Singo’s caliber would represent a statement of intent from a club seeking to cement its place among the Premier League elite.

Should the move materialize, Singo could well become Newcastle’s defensive anchor, bringing stability, versatility, and elite-level performance to a team hungry for silverware and European glory.