Newcastle United Are Keeping A Keen Eye On This Ligue 1 Defender: Good Choice For Howe? | OneFootball

Speaking on the new Inside Track, Pete O’Rourke mentioned that Newcastle United are keeping a keen eye on Olympique Marseille defender Leonardo Balerdi. O’Rourke said,

“I’m not sure it’s totally advanced, that one, but he’s a player who’s on Newcastle’s wanted list.

“Eddie Howe would like to bring in centre back reinforcements – that’s why Balerdi is one of the players that they are looking at.

“It’s a difficult deal to do; he’s the Marseille captain, Marseille will be very reluctant to sell him – so it would take a big, big offer to try and convince Marseille.

“Newcastle would have to pay £30million plus, and Juventus are very much interested in him as well as they look to strengthen their back line.

“It won’t be a straightforward race for Newcastle, and I think Marseille will do everything they can to keep hold of him.”

Balerdi’s Impressive Form In French Football

Balerdi enjoyed a solid campaign at the French club after he put in a run of impressive displays for them in Ligue 1. The Argentine talent made 29 appearances for Marseille last season in various competitions.

The 26-year-old was a solid presence when defending inside his half as he made 54 tackles, 25 blocks and 38 interceptions in Ligue 1. He was even accurate when distributing possession from the back after completing 93.8% of his attempted passes in the French first division (stats via fbref.com).

MARSEILLE, FRANCE – MAY 2: Leonardo Balerdi of Olympique de Marseille battles for the ball with Gianluca Scamacca of Atalanta BC during the UEFA Europa League 2023/24 Semi-Final first leg match between Olympique de Marseille and Atalanta BC at Stade de Marseille on May 2, 2024 in Marseille, France.(Photo by Chris Ricco/Getty Images)

Is Balerdi A Good Choice For Newcastle United Boss Eddie Howe?

Balerdi is a good tackler of the ball and can read the danger well to secure the ball back for his side inside his half. He usually clears his lines when the opposition are on the front foot and can even play his way out from the back.

The Italian sensation can even use his strong 1.87m frame to dominate the opposition attackers in the air. However, only time will tell whether he can make a smooth transition to life in the Premier League.

At 26, Balerdi has got his best years ahead of him which makes him an excellent choice for the Magpies to consider in this summer transfer period.

We can expect Balerdi to bring more quality to Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe’s first XI. He might even help the Tyneside club challenge across all fronts in the coming seasons.