Newcastle in talks with Benfica for fullback Amar Dedić

Newcastle United are in active negotiations with Benfica over a deal for right-back Amar Dedić, adding another chapter to what has become a busy defensive recruitment drive for the Magpies this summer.

Dedić, a 23-year-old Bosnian international, only arrived at Benfica in July 2025, signing a contract that runs through June 2030. Benfica have every structural incentive to play hardball, and Newcastle will likely need to pay a significant premium over what the Portuguese side originally invested.

A rapid rise through European football

Born on 18 August 2002, he developed through the Red Bull Salzburg system before his move to Benfica last summer reportedly cost the Lisbon club somewhere in the range of €10-12M.

Dedić made his Benfica debut in the Supertaça Cândido de Oliveira and established himself as a regular across multiple competitions during his first season.

Prior to his permanent move to Lisbon, Dedić also spent time on loan at Marseille, where he gained experience in French football before joining Benfica.

Why Newcastle want him

Newcastle aren’t the only English club to have noticed. Manchester City reportedly monitored Dedić earlier in 2026, with some valuations of the player reaching as high as £50M. That figure may seem eye-watering for a right-back who cost Benfica roughly a fifth of that amount just a year ago.

The fact that Dedić’s contract extends to 2030 gives Benfica enormous leverage. If Newcastle want this deal done, they’ll almost certainly need to make it financially compelling enough for Benfica to part with a player they clearly view as a long-term asset.

The bigger picture at St James’ Park

At 23, Dedić sits in the sweet spot of the age curve: young enough to have significant resale value, but experienced enough to slot into a Premier League squad without a lengthy adjustment period. His time at Salzburg, Marseille, and Benfica means he’s already adapted to three different footballing cultures and tactical systems.

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