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Newcastle United Revive Interest in Liverpool Defender Jarell Quansah
Newcastle United are reportedly preparing a £30 million summer bid for Liverpool defender Jarell Quansah, signaling a renewed pursuit of the highly-rated center-back. The Magpies, aiming to bolster their squad for a potential Champions League campaign, had previously shown interest in Quansah but were rebuffed last year. Despite the earlier setback, Newcastle’s determination to secure the young talent underscores their ambition in the Premier League transfer market.
Magpies Persist in Quansah Pursuit After Previous Rejection
Newcastle’s initial approach for the Liverpool star in 2024 was unsuccessful, as Anfield officials deemed their valuation insufficient. However, buoyed by their recent EFL Cup victory against Liverpool and strong Premier League standing, the Tyneside club are reigniting their interest.
Currently positioned sixth in the league table, just two points behind Chelsea in fourth place, Eddie Howe’s team are firmly in contention for Champions League qualification. To compete effectively against Europe’s top teams, Newcastle recognize the need to reinforce their defensive ranks with players of Quansah’s caliber.
Targeting Defensive Reinforcement
Newcastle representatives are expected to re-engage with Liverpool regarding Jarell Quansah, marking their second approach in the past year. The club’s primary objective is to acquire a right-sided centre-back to serve as a long-term successor to Fabian Schar, who is approaching his mid-thirties.
Valuation Gap Remains Potential Hurdle
Newcastle are optimistic that an offer of £30 million, potentially supplemented by performance-based add-ons, could persuade Liverpool to consider a sale. However, reports indicate that Liverpool maintain a higher estimation of Quansah’s worth, which could present a challenge in negotiations.
Quansah’s Liverpool Situation
Jarell Quansah is contracted to Liverpool for another four years. He experienced a notable breakthrough season last year, making 33 first-team appearances after debuting in late August. His rapid ascent included a call-up to Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for World Cup qualifiers, highlighting his burgeoning potential.
Despite initial promise this season, including a pre-season impression and starting the opening league match against Ipswich, Quansah’s playing time has become limited under manager Arne Slot. He was substituted at halftime during the Ipswich game and has since accumulated only 286 league minutes across just two starts.
Transfer Value and Newcastle’s Optimism
Quansah’s reduced game time this season may have influenced his market value, potentially bolstering Newcastle’s optimism about acquiring him for their targeted £30 million fee.
Having been part of Liverpool’s youth system since 2008, Quansah has amassed 55 appearances for the senior team since his debut in August 2023. At 22 years of age, he aligns with Newcastle’s preferred transfer strategy under Eddie Howe, which prioritizes signings aged 25 or younger.
Newcastle anticipates greater flexibility in their transfer budget this summer, having navigated Premier League Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) constraints in June 2024.
PSR Considerations and Newcastle’s Spending Capacity
Premier League PSR regulations impose limits on club losses, set at £105 million over a rolling three-year period. To comply with these rules and avoid potential points deductions, Newcastle had to sell young prospects Yankuba Minteh and Elliot Anderson last season, as disclosed by Howe in January.
Between 2021 and 2024, Newcastle’s net transfer expenditure totaled approximately minus £390 million, reflecting £430 million in player acquisitions against £40 million in player sales.
However, with increased financial maneuverability within PSR limitations this summer, Newcastle are better positioned to pursue key targets like Jarell Quansah.