Sources: Newcastle working to sign £70m superstar after Elanga

Newcastle United remain firmly in the hunt to sign Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi, as head coach Eddie Howe and key decision-makers at the club have made strengthening the centre-back position a top priority.

While efforts to bolster the attack are ongoing, the club’s attention is shifting towards fortifying their defensive line ahead of a season that includes a return to Champions League football.

An upgraded £55 million offer has already been tabled for Nottingham Forest’s Anthony Elanga, demonstrating Newcastle’s aggressive intent in the transfer market.

Elanga is seen as a major addition to the forward ranks, but once that deal is finalised, all focus is expected to turn toward reinforcing the backline.

Eddie Howe has already made a statement of intent by securing highly-rated youngster Antonio Cordero following the expiry of his contract at Malaga, beating off interest from European giants like Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Porto. However, it’s Guehi who now sits at the top of their defensive wishlist.

Despite Crystal Palace rejecting a £70 million bid for Guehi from Tottenham Hotspur during the January window, Newcastle have remained undeterred.

Their admiration for the England international has not waned, and sources close to the club suggest they are ready to reignite negotiations with the hope of capitalising on his contract situation.

With just one year left on his current deal, Guehi’s future at Selhurst Park appears uncertain. Newcastle are aware that Palace risk losing him on a free transfer next summer, and they are positioning themselves to take advantage of that vulnerability.

Guehi’s performance levels over the past season have done little to quieten speculation. He featured 44 times in all competitions, played a crucial role in helping Palace win the FA Cup, and has been publicly hailed as a “superstar” by the club’s chairman, Steve Parish.

His blend of composure, athleticism, and leadership at just 24 years old makes him a natural fit for a Newcastle side looking to add depth and quality to its central defensive options.

Fabian Schar, Dan Burn, and Sven Botman have all played key roles under Howe, but the coaching staff want fresh competition to raise standards further.

Newcastle’s defensive strategy is not solely focused on Guehi, though. The club remains pragmatic, knowing competition for his signature is fierce.

As a result, alternative targets have already been scouted and shortlisted. One name that continues to be monitored closely is Giorgio Scalvini of Atalanta.

While the Serie A club have publicly stated they have no intention of selling the Italian international, Newcastle’s interest has not cooled. Scalvini’s age, versatility, and potential align well with the club’s long-term vision, and internal discussions are ongoing about whether a bid could tempt Atalanta into talks.

Another defender on Newcastle’s radar is Leonardo Balerdi of Marseille. The Argentine centre-back has caught the eye with his commanding presence and technical ability.

Juventus had shown interest earlier in the window but walked away due to his price tag, leaving an opening for Newcastle to explore. The club’s recruitment department is said to be monitoring the situation closely, and a formal approach could materialise depending on how other negotiations unfold.

After a quiet start to the summer, Newcastle’s transfer plans are beginning to accelerate. The ambition within the club is clear—strengthen key areas with quality additions while maintaining financial discipline and future resale potential.

With a new Champions League campaign on the horizon and the expectations of last season still fresh, Eddie Howe knows he needs both depth and excellence across all departments.

Securing a top-level centre-back like Guehi—or an equally promising alternative—will be vital if Newcastle are to challenge on multiple fronts and continue their climb among Europe’s elite.