Newcastle United faces a substantial injury setback ahead of the upcoming season due to the unavailability of two key starting center backs until the commencement of the new year. Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles, both undergoing anterior cruciate ligament surgeries, are expected to remain sidelined for a duration spanning between six to nine months, thereby ruling out their participation in the entirety of 2024.
The absence of these pivotal players necessitates an urgent search for suitable replacements, significantly impacting Newcastle’s plans for summer recruitment. Consequently, the club’s pursuit of Crystal Palace and England defender Marc Guehi, as reported by Football Insider, may undergo reassessment under the managerial helm of Eddie Howe.
Despite prior interest, Newcastle refrained from pursuing Guehi during the January transfer window, primarily due to the considerable valuation set by Palace. However, the current injury crisis may prompt a reevaluation of the club’s stance on acquiring defensive reinforcements.
Newcastle would be hoping to reach an agreement for Guehi
In the context of extended timeframes for team negotiations during the summer transfer window, the process tends to proceed more smoothly. Therefore, Newcastle anticipates that Crystal Palace may be more amenable to negotiations. The 23-year-old player has participated in 22 Premier League matches for Crystal Palace this season, during which the team encountered certain challenges in comparison to previous seasons.
Due to a knee injury, the player, Guehi, is currently sidelined but is expected to return later this month, aiming to secure a position in England’s Euro 2024 squad. While Newcastle aims to reach an agreement for the acquisition of the former Chelsea defender, Crystal Palace is inclined to ensure that any potential deal aligns with their valuation.
Newcastle have endured a difficult season
Following an exceptional previous season, the current campaign has presented formidable challenges for the Magpies. Their attainment of Champions League qualification in the preceding season stands in stark contrast to their current standing.
Despite a commendable journey culminating in a Carabao Cup final appearance, their performance in domestic cup competitions this season has been lackluster. Setbacks in the form of injuries to pivotal players have impeded their advancement. However, it is anticipated that Manager Howe endeavors to rectify this situation in the forthcoming season by augmenting the squad’s depth.