Newcastle United have held talks with Marseille over a transfer for Duje Caleta-Car in case Eddie Howe cannot sign his top target Sevilla defender Diego Carlos, according to 90min.
The Magpies remain locked in discussions with Carlos’ La Liga outfit, having already agreed to personal terms with the Brazilian. Los Nervionenses are showing a firm reluctance to sell the 28-year-old whilst Julen Lopetegui’s side are challenging Real Madrid for a league title.
Newcastle have already made Sevilla a number of offers for Carlos’ transfer, but it may take paying his release clause. The centre-half has a £66m break fee in his contract in Andalusia. The Toon have yet indicated they will do so, but Tottenham may now present competition.
Howe demands United improve his defence during the winter market and talks are ongoing with alternative targets. Among them, Newcastle have contacted both Marseille and their Croatian centre-half Caleta-Car to discuss a transfer to St James’ Park.
The Magpies are giving serious thought to signing Caleta-Car as the 25-year-old is available for a half-season loan. The deal could also include purchase clauses, which would suit the Tyneside outfit. But West Ham are keeping tabs on his situation and may plot a swoop.
Marseille star and Newcastle target Caleta-Car dreams of Premier League move
Reports by The Telegraph back on Boxing Day had noted Marseille’s Caleta-Car featured on Newcastle’s transfer shortlist for January deals. The Toon have now seemingly advanced on their interest as Howe’s wish for Carlos to join his mission continually stalls.
Signing Caleta-Car may not be as challenging, given Marseille’s willingness to discuss a loan-to-buy transfer for the Newcastle target. Additionally, Foot Mercato noted in December he still dreams of moving to the Premier League after previous deals fell through.
Marseille bought Caleta-Car from RB Salzburg in 2018 for €19m (£16m) and wanted €20m (£17m) last summer, per L’Equipe. That price may now be negotiable as the 20-cap ace has only started 10 Ligue 1 games this season.
Also, the 6 ft 4, dual-footed enforcer with ‘impressive pace’ only has 18-months left on his contract with OM. So, Newcastle could strike a bit of a bargain in talks with Marseille for Caleta-Car if Sevilla continue to play hardball over Howe’s top target Carlos’ transfer.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
