Newcastle United believe they can sign Sevilla defender Diego Carlos for £40m in a January transfer, as Eddie Howe’s side prepare to make an improved offer, according to talkSPORT.
The Toon are keen to bring the Brazilian to Tyneside to improve the Premier League’s worst backline. No club has conceded more goals than the 42 that United and Norwich City have allowed so far. The Magpies also kept their only clean sheet for the season against Burnley.
Carlos has established a reputation as a no-nonsense enforcer since joining Sevilla in 2019. He is also comfortable playing the ball out from the back, and is one of Howe’s top targets.
Sevilla have already rejected one offer from Newcastle as they look to secure a transfer for Carlos. The Toon bid £25m, precisely double the €15m (£12.5m) they paid Nantes in 2019.
But Newcastle are planning to submit a second, improved offer and believe Sevilla will sell Carlos for around £40m. He is now shooting up their shortlist of centre-half targets. Howe is determined to improve the position this month after adding Kieran Trippier at right-back.
Sevilla still working on keeping Carlos, despite Newcastle transfer belief
However, while talkSPORT report Newcastle believe Sevilla will sanction Carlos’ transfer for around £40m, 90min report the Toon may have to offer more than £40m for the 28-year-old.
They also note Carlos is open to moving to St James’ Park, unlike rival targets Sven Botman and Nico Schlotterbeck. Talks with Lille and Freiburg have stalled due to their lack of desire.
Additionally, Newcastle want Carlos signed before their next Premier League fixture against Watford on January 15. But Sevilla Sporting Director Monchi is also speaking to the centre-half’s agent over a new contract. His deal ends in 2024 and includes a £65m release clause.
Newcastle are unlikely to trigger Carlos’ break clause to seal a transfer for the Sevilla star. Yet agreeing on terms with Los Nervionenses will see Howe acquire a top-draw enforcer.
“I think Sevilla have the best centre-back, the most underrated centre-back, in European football in Diego Carlos,” Owen Hargreaves said on BT Sport, via quotes by the Express. “I think he is a fabulous player, Brazilian, is rugged, can compete, [a] really good player.”
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