Champions League club target Newcastle United defender for January move | OneFootball

An interesting one ahead of the January transfer window, with it now reported that a Champions League club could come in and sign Emil Krafth.

Over in Denmark, Bold report that FC Copenhagen are interested in the Newcastle United defender.

Reigning champions in Denmark, FC Copenhagen have lost their first choice right-back Rodrigo Huescas, he is out for the season due to a serious knee injury.

Which has led to the claimed interest in Emil Krafth.

With over 100 appearances for Newcastle United and more than 50 caps for Sweden, the 31 year old United defender looks a good call.

Emil Krafth has been a great servant to NUFC since signing over six years ago from Ligue 1 club Amiens SC. He agreed (see below) a contract extension in February that currently takes him to the end of June 2026.

Krafth’s only appearance this season so far, was the first hour of the League Cup win over Bradford.

The Sweden international has been regularly making the matchday squads recently. However, with the likes of defenders Tino Livramento and Lewis Hall expected back within the next month, you have to think that will squeeze Emil Krafth out of the matchday squads.

I would have thought it unlikely that Krafth will be offered a further contract extension with Newcastle United, as he turns 32 ahead of next season. However, he can certainly still do a job and would hopefully elsewhere be able to get regular first team football again, if making a move. Depending on the availability of others when it gets to January, Eddie Howe may be prepared to let Emil Krafth move on, whether that is to FC Copenhagen or wherever.

Newcastle United official announcement – 20 February 2025:

‘Defender Emil Krafth has signed a contract extension that will keep him with the club until the end of the 2025/26 season.

The 50-time Sweden international has been with the Magpies since 2019 when he joined from French side Amiens and has since made 93 appearances for the club.

Krafth has appeared eight times in all competitions this season, including making a return from a collarbone injury in a 3-2 Emirates FA Cup victory over Birmingham City earlier this month.

After signing his extension, Krafth said: “I’m delighted to extend my time at Newcastle United for another year. It’s an exciting time to be part of this club.

“We have a lot to play for throughout the rest of this season, and I’m looking forward playing my part in helping the team finish the season in a positive way.

“It feels like home here for both me and my family, having been here for such a long time. We all enjoy everything about being part of this club, and I love playing for Newcastle United.”

Newcastle United head coach Eddie Howe said: “I’m delighted we have extended Emil’s contract. He is an incredible professional in the way he trains, plays and conducts himself.

“He offers us versatility in defensive positions, which is vital to have, along with vast experience and a steadying influence. He will continue to be an important part of our squad on and off the pitch.”

Paul Mitchell, the club’s sporting director, said: “Emil can play across different defensive positions and he gives the first team squad important balance.

“He is ultra-professional, and given his experience both at club and international level, it made it a simple decision for the club to extend his contract.