GOOD NEWS TO THE EAGLES: “Newcastle Shift Focus to German Giant as Marc Guehi Transfer Hits Roadblock”

As the transfer deadline approaches, Newcastle United is reportedly considering a last-minute move for RB Leipzig defender Mohamed Simakan, according to Sky Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg. The Magpies are keen to strengthen their center-back position before the window closes.Simakan, a 24-year-old versatile defender, has attracted interest from several European clubs and Saudi Arabian teams, including Barcelona and Liverpool. Leipzig is open to negotiations but only for “suitable offers,” as Simakan’s contract runs until June 2027.Newcastle’s pursuit of Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi has stalled due to Palace’s £70m valuation, prompting the search for alternatives. Simakan’s ability to play both right-back and center-back makes him an attractive option for many top clubs.However, Saudi club Al-Nassr is reportedly pushing hard to sign Simakan, though the player hasn’t made a decision yet. Since joining Leipzig in 2021, Simakan has made 122 appearances, scoring seven goals and providing 13 assists.Newcastle’s interest in Simakan comes amid a defensive crisis, with Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles sidelined with long-term ACL injuries. The club is also considering Chelsea’s Trevoh Chalobah as another potential option if they can’t secure Guehi or Simakan.Chalobah, 25, has made 80 senior appearances for Chelsea but is looking to leave Stamford Bridge. Despite interest from several Premier League clubs, no concrete moves have materialized yet.As the transfer deadline looms, Newcastle is exploring multiple options to bolster their defense, with Simakan emerging as a key target in their last-minute recruitment efforts.