Newcastle United fans have been left frustrated this summer. It is easy to see why that is the case. The squad has been significantly weakened over the course of the transfer window.
The Magpies have failed to hold on to their best players. In fact, the top three might have left within the space of months, alongside manager Eddie Howe.
So, this is a transitional period for the club. And if they are not careful, they might find themselves in a relegation battle. The results in pre-season have caused worry.
At the same time, more signings are expected to be made. And the next one does suggest that new manager Matthias Jaissle is being backed by the management, which is always a positive.
Newcastle United medical set before signing
According to The Northern Echo, Amar Dedic is set to become Jaissle’s first signing at Newcastle United. The Magpies were putting the finishing touches to a £30 million agreement with Benfica today. The Bosnian international is expected on Tyneside on Sunday to undergo his medical.
Of course, Dedic is a familiar face to Jaissle. The two have worked together in the past at both FC Liefering and RB Salzburg. So, the manager will know exactly what he will be getting from the full-back.
It is an area where Newcastle United needed to make necessary additions. The full-back position has been weakened through summer departures and injuries.
Tino Livramento is working his way back from an injury that he suffered on the eve of the World Cup and caused him to miss the entire tournament.
The England international’s fitness record is not the greatest by any stretch of the imagination. So, it is understandable why another addition is being made there. At the very least, he needs some competition for that spot.
Dedic could be good enough for starting spot
Dedic might not be just another cover option though. Newcastle United are spending £30 million to bring him in from Benfica. At the very least, the expectation will be to compete for the first-team spot with Livramento.
Jaissle has already worked with him in the past. That might give Dedic an advantage. Of course, the fans will hope that both do well and the better one ends up as the starter.
Anyways, there are other positions which need strengthening between now and the end of the summer transfer window. One can only hope that those will be made in time.
