Sven Botman’s former Lille teammate linked with Newcastle move

The Magpies’ pursuit of defensive reinforcements has taken an intriguing twist with reports emerging from Italy suggesting interest in Juventus’ Tiago Djalo.

As Newcastle continue their search for a right-sided center-back following their unsuccessful chase of Dean Huijsen and ongoing uncertainty surrounding Marc Guéhi, the Portuguese international has emerged as a potential option with existing connections to current Newcastle defender Sven Botman.

Turin-based publication TuttoJuve claims both Newcastle and Crystal Palace are monitoring the 25-year-old, who previously partnered Botman at Lille before the Dutchman’s move to Tyneside.

Djalo’s versatility appeals to Eddie Howe’s preference for adaptable defenders – capable of operating centrally or at right-back – while his European experience (including Europa League appearances for Porto last season) adds to his credentials.

However, serious questions remain about whether this link represents genuine interest or simply another case of continental media using Newcastle’s name to generate market buzz for an available player.

Assessing Djalo’s Credentials

The Portuguese defender’s career trajectory shows promise mixed with inconsistency. His loan spell at Porto began brightly with debut goals in both cup and European competition, but yielded just 17 total appearances across the 2024/25 campaign.

This limited playing time raises legitimate concerns about whether he could make the immediate impact Newcastle require as they prepare for another Champions League campaign.

Djalo’s technical profile suggests a defender comfortable in possession – an essential quality for Howe’s system – with the athleticism to handle Premier League demands. His prior partnership with Botman at Lille could facilitate quicker integration, potentially recreating the understanding that made them effective together in Ligue 1.

However, his lack of Premier League experience and unspectacular stint in Italy make him a risky proposition compared to established targets like Guéhi or Bournemouth’s Illia Zabarnyi.

Newcastle’s defensive recruitment strategy appears at a crossroads. While Djalo represents an affordable option with room for development, he doesn’t clearly surpass current options Fabian Schär or Emil Krafth in terms of proven quality.

With Juventus needing to sell players this summer, the link may simply represent an attempt to drum up interest in a squad player rather than reflecting genuine Newcastle intent.

The Magpies face a critical decision – pursue a high-caliber, ready-made starter like Guéhi who would command a premium fee, or opt for a cheaper alternative like Djalo who offers potential but comes with greater risk.

Given their Champions League ambitions and the need to immediately improve upon last season’s defensive frailties, the former approach seems more aligned with the club’s stated objectives.

While Djalo’s age and versatility make him an interesting prospect, Newcastle should approach this link with healthy skepticism unless concrete interest emerges from St James’ Park sources.

The defender’s limited playing time at both Juventus and Porto suggests he may not be the transformative presence Newcastle need to solidify their backline. With Schär entering the twilight of his career and Krafth better suited to full-back duties, the Magpies require a definitive upgrade rather than another developmental project.

The coming weeks will reveal whether this link gains traction or fades away like so many summer transfer rumors.

For now, Newcastle fans would be wise to keep expectations tempered regarding Djalo, while hoping the club’s recruitment team maintain focus on securing a center-back who can immediately elevate their defensive unit to Champions League standards.

The Portuguese defender may represent a useful squad option, but hardly the statement signing that would signal Newcastle’s readiness to compete with Europe’s elite.