Newcastle United have officially secured the services of Amar Dedic from Benfica in a deal worth approximately £30m. The Bosnia-Herzegovina international has put pen to paper on a five-year contract with the Magpies.
The 24-year-old defender underwent his medical examinations in Newcastle on Monday, with the formal announcement following on Tuesday, which coincided with his birthday. This transfer also marks a reunion with Matthias Jaissle, the coach who previously guided Dedic during their time together at Red Bull Salzburg.
Dedic Excited for New Chapter at St James’ Park
Dedic expressed his delight at joining Newcastle, calling it a significant milestone in his career and stating his eagerness to get started at St James’ Park. He also spoke warmly about his prior connection with Jaissle, noting that their established working relationship played a key role in his decision to make the move.
The full-back has tasted the atmosphere of Newcastle’s iconic stadium before, though that experience ended in disappointment. He was part of the Benfica side that suffered a 3-0 Champions League loss to Newcastle in the previous campaign.
Now, Dedic will have the opportunity to represent the home team at St James’ Park, and he is particularly looking forward to the fervent crowd and the demanding nature of Premier League football.
Newcastle Address Right-Back Position
The Magpies were in the market for a new right-back following the departure of Kieran Trippier. The seasoned defender left the club as a free agent after his contract expired earlier in the summer and has since signed with Wolves.
Dedic might be thrust into action right away, as Newcastle kick off their league campaign at home to Liverpool on Sunday. Tino Livramento remains unavailable as he continues his recovery from a calf injury picked up while on England duty in June.
Jaissle is well aware of Dedic’s capabilities, having worked with him since his early days in Austria. The Newcastle boss is confident that the defender can make an impact at both ends of the pitch and will seamlessly adapt to the team’s tactical approach.
The manager also commended Dedic’s athleticism, tenacity, and technical skills, while emphasizing that the player still has significant potential for growth.
Dedic’s Attacking Prowess
Dedic arrives at Newcastle without any prior Premier League experience and will need time to adapt to the league’s pace and physicality. However, he is already well-versed in the demands Jaissle places on his full-backs.
His versatility is another asset, as he is comfortable playing on either flank and can also provide cover at left-back when needed.
His statistics from Portugal highlight his tendency to drive forward with the ball. In 24 Primeira Liga appearances last season, he ranked second among full-backs for carries into the attacking third with 49, while also registering 202 progressive carries and 325 total carries.
Newcastle’s Transfer Activity Continues
Newcastle’s sporting director, Ross Wilson, has praised Dedic as being “incredibly hungry” to prove himself, and his existing rapport with Jaissle should aid his swift integration into the squad’s playing style.
With his physical attributes, Dedic could be a contender for the starting lineup against Liverpool, even though he has only had a few training sessions with his new colleagues.
At 24, Dedic is one of the more experienced players Newcastle have brought in this summer, yet he is only the second signing over the age of 20, following goalkeeper Lukas Hornicek.
With Dedic now on board, Newcastle are expected to continue strengthening their squad before the transfer window shuts on 1 September.