Newcastle United have entered advanced discussions with Benfica over the signing of defender Amar Dedic, with the Premier League club eager to strengthen at right-back after Kieran Trippier’s departure.
Trippier joined Wolves as a free agent earlier this summer when his contract at St James’ Park expired, leaving Newcastle to search for a new option on the right side of defence.
Dedic, 23, is no stranger to Newcastle manager Matthias Jaissle. The pair worked together at Red Bull Salzburg, where the full-back was a regular in the side that successfully defended the Austrian Bundesliga title in 2023.
Talks with Benfica are said to be progressing, with the Bosnia-Herzegovina international carrying a valuation of around £30m. Should the deal be completed, Dedic could be thrust straight into action for Newcastle’s season opener against Liverpool on 23 August.
That is partly because Tino Livramento is still recovering from a calf injury he picked up while on England duty in June.
Dedic has earned 31 caps for his country and started three of Bosnia-Herzegovina’s four matches at the World Cup. His attacking numbers in Portugal last season also stand out, with the full-back ranking second among Primeira Liga defenders for carries into the attacking third with 49. He also placed third for progressive carries with 202 and total carries with 325.
With the new campaign approaching, securing Dedic would give Newcastle a ready-made replacement on the right flank while also offering cover during Livramento’s recovery.
