Abdulhafiz TeslimNewcastle United could be ready to make another statement in the transfer market, with Benfica defender Amar Dedić emerging as a player reportedly under consideration by the Magpies.
The 23-year-old Bosnia and Herzegovina international has attracted attention as Newcastle continue to assess ways of strengthening their squad ahead of the new Premier League campaign.
According to transfer reporter Sam Alex, Dedić is admired by members of the Newcastle hierarchy, with his versatility and attacking qualities making him an appealing option for the club.
There could also be another interesting reason why a move to St James’ Park could make sense.
Dedić already knows Newcastle head coach Matthias Jaissle.
The pair previously worked together during their time in Austria, including at FC Liefering and RB Salzburg. That existing relationship could give Newcastle an interesting advantage if the club decides to develop its interest into a formal approach.
Newcastle considering defensive reinforcement
Newcastle’s interest in Dedić comes as the club continues to assess its options in the full-back positions.
The Magpies are looking for greater depth and quality across their defensive ranks, particularly with the demands of another long Premier League campaign ahead.
Rather than simply searching for a traditional defender, Newcastle could be looking for a player capable of offering greater tactical flexibility.
That is where Dedić could become an attractive option.
Primarily a right-back, the Bosnia international has also demonstrated the ability to contribute in different defensive roles. His technical qualities and attacking instincts could allow him to provide Newcastle with another option when building attacks.
For a manager who values flexibility from his defenders, Dedić could potentially be a strong tactical fit.
Why Dedić could suit Jaissle
Modern full-backs are increasingly expected to contribute far beyond their defensive duties.
They are often required to move into midfield during possession, support attacks from wide areas and provide an additional passing option during the build-up.
Those characteristics could make Dedić an intriguing option for Jaissle.
The Newcastle head coach already knows the defender from their time together at Liefering and Salzburg, meaning Dedić would not be completely unfamiliar with his manager’s methods.
That familiarity could potentially make a future reunion easier than introducing a completely new player to Jaissle’s tactical demands.
Dedić already understands the principles associated with the coach, while Jaissle is also familiar with the player’s qualities.
That could become an important factor if Newcastle decide to push ahead with their interest.
Benfica could face a difficult decision
Dedić joined Portuguese giants Benfica from RB Salzburg in July 2025, signing a long-term contract with the club.
At just 23, the defender still has significant room for development, which could make Benfica reluctant to consider his departure unless an attractive offer arrives.
Newcastle, meanwhile, have the financial capacity to test the Portuguese club’s resolve if they decide Dedić is the right player for their squad.
However, there is currently no indication that a formal Newcastle bid has been submitted.
That distinction is important.
The Magpies’ reported interest should therefore be viewed as a situation to monitor rather than evidence that a transfer is close.
Could Newcastle make the next move?
Internal discussions are reportedly continuing at St James’ Park as Newcastle assess potential additions to their defensive ranks.
The major question now is whether the club will turn its reported interest in Dedić into an official approach.
With the transfer window entering an increasingly important period, Newcastle will need to decide which targets they want to prioritise before the deadline.
An opening proposal could potentially establish the club’s intentions and determine whether Benfica are willing to negotiate.
If Newcastle do make contact, Dedić’s previous relationship with Jaissle could become an interesting factor in the discussions.
For the player, a move to the Premier League would represent another major step in his career.
For Newcastle, meanwhile, the potential signing would provide them with a young defender who can offer versatility and technical quality.
Most importantly, there is already a connection between the player and the manager.
That could prove useful if negotiations develop.
Newcastle also assessing midfield options
The Magpies’ recruitment plans may not end with defensive reinforcement.
Newcastle are also expected to continue assessing their midfield options before the transfer window closes, with Atalanta midfielder Teun Koopmeiners previously linked with the club.
That suggests Newcastle could still have several areas they want to address as they prepare for another demanding Premier League campaign.
For now, however, Dedić remains a player under consideration rather than a Newcastle player.
Much will depend on whether the Magpies decide to turn their reported interest into a formal approach and whether Benfica would be prepared to negotiate.
But with his versatility, Premier League potential and existing relationship with Jaissle, Amar Dedić could be a name Newcastle supporters hear considerably more about before the transfer window closes.
Abdulhafiz Teslim
admin
