Newcastle United nears deal for Amar Dedić, personal terms agreed

Newcastle United are on the verge of completing a deal for Benfica defender Amar Dedić, with personal terms already agreed and negotiations now focused on hammering out the final transfer fee. The 23-year-old Bosnian international has made clear he wants the move to Tyneside, and the feeling appears mutual.

The deal would reunite Dedić with Matthias Jaissle, who was appointed Newcastle’s head coach on August 5. The two worked together at Red Bull Salzburg, and that prior relationship seems to be doing a lot of the heavy lifting in convincing the defender to choose Newcastle over rival suitors.

The numbers at play

Benfica have reportedly set their asking price at approximately €30 million, which translates to around £25.6 million. Newcastle have countered with an offer in the region of £28 million.

Dedić only arrived at Benfica on July 14, 2025, signing a contract that runs through 2030. Newcastle aren’t the only Premier League club that had eyes on Dedić. Both Everton and Fulham have shown interest in the defender, which likely helped accelerate Newcastle’s decision to move quickly and lock down personal terms before a bidding war could develop.

Why Dedić fits the plan

Born on August 18, 2002, Dedić stands 1.80 meters tall and primarily operates as a right-back. He’s also capable of playing left-back or slotting into a centre-back role when needed.

Dedić has also represented Bosnia and Herzegovina at international level. For a player still only 23, the combination of top-flight Portuguese league football, international caps, and Champions League exposure at both Salzburg and Benfica represents a well-rounded development path.

Newcastle’s broader defensive overhaul

The pursuit of Dedić doesn’t exist in isolation. Newcastle have been actively exploring multiple defensive options as they look to shore up a backline ahead of the upcoming season. The transfer talks began in mid-August 2026 as Newcastle aims to strengthen their defensive ranks before the season starts.

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