Newcastle eyes Barca's 28-year-old versatile defender as Guehi's alternative

Newcastle United have started their new campaign with a cheeky win of 1-0 over Southampton at their home turf. Though the Magpies stood out, bagging the complete 3 points off the fixture, they were not the clear dominant force in the fixture. Even though an extraordinary effort from Nick Pope saw the club finish with a clean sheet, the matchday clearly illustrated the need for a leader at the heart of Newcastle's defense.

When Schar got suspended following a rift between him and Brereton Diaz in the 28th minute, Magpies' boss Howe was forced to pull off a tactical substitution to increase the defensive prowess. The match, even though it ended with the scoreline in Newcastle's favor, has indicated a signing required in the club's defensive force.

Newcastle eyes Andreas Christensen as Guehi's alternative

Eddie Howe, being aware of the issue, had been targeting Crystal Palace's Guehi but hasn't found considerable success in his pursuit. According to reports suggesting that Palace rejected the club's fourth bid for the center-back, the Magpies have started looking for alternatives to bolster their backline.

Recent reports from Mundo Deportivo suggest that Newcastle United have set eyes on Barca's Christensen as a viable option. Though much hasn't been revealed about the club's approach to Denmark's defensive asset, it is clear that Barça would not consider selling Christensen unless there is an irrefutable offer from Howe's side.

Analyzing from Newcastle's perspective, a potential deal with the former Chelsea star could be pivotal for their defense reinforcements. Having the experience of featuring for some of the European heavyweights, combined with his versatility to switch either to the pivot role or start back as the lead center-back, if acquirable, Christensen could end the need for Guehi's pursuit at the club.

However, as mentioned, FC Barcelona won't consider anything below the market price of the versatile center-back. Given the prevailing injury issues at the Blaugrana club, it is inevitable that they will demand at least £30M-£35M for Christensen. Considering Newcastle's financial operations, it wouldn't be much given their readability to spend £65M for Guehi.

Though further updates on the club's decision to pursue Christensen as the alternative to Guehi are yet to arrive, it is certain that the club needs a powerful addition at the center-back position and wouldn't mind spending a hefty fee for it.