Newcastle United switch attention to signing Abdukodir Khusanov’s £25M teammate

Newcastle United’s pursuit of defensive reinforcements continues to dominate discussions, with the club long linked to potential signings to bolster their backline.

Despite securing Lloyd Kelly during the summer transfer window, Newcastle fell short in their attempt to land Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi. While Guehi remains a subject of interest for the Magpies, the likelihood of a January move appears slim, especially as rival interest in the England international could intensify by the summer.

In response, sporting director Paul Mitchell has reportedly shifted his focus to explore alternative options across the global market. Among the names linked to Newcastle is Lens center-back Abdukodir Khusanov.

However, recent reports suggest Manchester City are now the frontrunners for Khusanov, prompting Newcastle to consider other possibilities within the French club’s roster. One such alternative is Kevin Danso, a 26-year-old Austrian central defender who has garnered significant attention for his performances in Ligue 1.

Danso’s career trajectory is a testament to resilience and growth. Having emerged from the youth ranks at MK Dons, he moved on to Southampton but struggled to establish himself as a regular.

A subsequent move to Lens allowed him to rediscover his form, and he has since become a vital part of the team, even earning Champions League experience.

This development marks a stark contrast to his earlier struggles, where he was viewed as a rotational player in the Premier League. Now a key figure for Lens, Danso’s resurgence has placed him firmly on the radar of several top European clubs.

According to reports from Caught Offside, Newcastle have expressed strong interest in acquiring Danso. The Magpies are not alone in this pursuit, with Wolverhampton Wanderers and West Ham United also reportedly monitoring the defender.

On the continent, prominent clubs such as Juventus, Inter Milan, Roma, Bayern Munich, Fenerbahçe, and Villarreal have been linked with Danso, underscoring his growing reputation. Lens, aware of the rising demand for their star defender, have reportedly set an asking price in the region of £20-£25 million.

Danso’s potential move to Newcastle represents more than just a chance to strengthen the squad; it also highlights the club’s ambition to remain competitive domestically and in European competitions.

His Champions League experience, coupled with his defensive prowess, would add depth and quality to Newcastle’s backline. Moreover, his familiarity with the rigors of English football, having previously played for Southampton, could ease his transition back to the Premier League.

Interestingly, Danso’s journey to professional football wasn’t always driven by passion. In an interview with The Athletic in 2022, he candidly admitted that he initially found football “boring” before discovering his love for the game during his time at MK Dons.

He credited the club for reigniting his interest and shaping his career trajectory. “The reason I fell in love with football is because of my time at MK Dons,” Danso revealed. This transformation from apathy to passion underscores the personal growth that has mirrored his professional development.

Newcastle’s interest in Danso dates back to April 2023, indicating that the defender has long been on the club’s radar. His consistent performances for Lens have only reinforced their belief in his abilities.

However, securing his signature will require navigating competition from multiple clubs, both domestically and abroad. The involvement of European heavyweights like Bayern Munich and Juventus could complicate Newcastle’s pursuit, but the allure of playing in the Premier League, combined with the club’s upward trajectory under Eddie Howe, might tilt the scales in their favor.

For Newcastle, the potential acquisition of Kevin Danso aligns with their broader strategy of identifying and investing in players who can contribute immediately while also offering long-term value.

As the club continues to compete on multiple fronts, reinforcing the defensive line remains a priority. While Danso’s signing is far from guaranteed, his profile fits the mold of the player Newcastle seeks—experienced, adaptable, and with the hunger to succeed at the highest level.

The coming months will reveal whether Newcastle can secure Danso’s services amid intense competition. If successful, the move would not only enhance their defensive options but also signal their intent to remain competitive in both domestic and European competitions.

For Danso, a return to English football represents an opportunity to showcase his growth and establish himself as a top-tier defender. Regardless of the outcome, Newcastle’s pursuit of Kevin Danso reflects their ambition and commitment to building a squad capable of sustaining success at the highest levels.