Overview
- Multiple outlets reported this week that Newcastle have opened formal club-to-club talks with Benfica and that negotiations are ongoing with the player interested in a move.
- New head coach Matthias Jaissle has approved Dedić as a target and previously coached him at FC Liefering and RB Salzburg, a relationship seen as speeding any reunion.
- The pursuit is driven by a clear squad need after Kieran Trippier left and Tino Livramento faces fitness issues, leaving Newcastle light at full-back.
- Benfica hold strong leverage because Dedić is contracted to 2030 and Portuguese reports cite an asking price near €35m, while other Premier League clubs including Manchester City, Everton and Fulham have monitored him.
- No agreement is finalised and talks continue, with the likely next steps being a negotiated fee or competing bids as Newcastle race to bolster their defence before the window closes.