Full-back crisis solved? Newcastle push to sign Amar Dedic from Benfica ahead of Premier League opener against Liverpool

According to The Athletic, Newcastle United are actively working on a deal for Dedic to bolster a squad severely depleted by injuries and high-profile departures. Although the 23-year-old full-back possesses a €50 million (£42.7m) release clause, there is widespread expectation that a significantly lower fee could be agreed.

Matthias Jaissle is eager to make the Bosnian his first signing since taking the reins earlier this month. Having previously coached Dedic at both FC Liefering and Red Bull Salzburg, the German manager views their existing relationship as a key factor in speeding up the full-back's integration into the squad.

The timing of the move is critical for Newcastle, who face a daunting Premier League opener against Liverpool on August 23 without a fit senior right-back. Tino Livramento remains sidelined following a minor calf operation in June, while Lewis Miley is still building up fitness after a broken leg.

If an agreement is reached with Benfica in time, Dedic is expected to go straight into the starting XI against the Reds. With Livramento not anticipated back until the end of the month, the Bosnian defender would be thrown straight into the deep end at St James' Park.

The squad Jaissle inherited is in urgent need of surgery following a wave of high-profile departures. Eddie Howe had already highlighted a lack of depth and experience, but the problem has intensified at full-back following the exits of Kieran Trippier, Emil Krafth, and Matt Targett, leaving Newcastle without any senior full-back additions so far this summer.

While long-term excitement surrounds Jaissle's arrival on Tyneside, immediate success hinges on swift recruitment to match his high-intensity pressing style. Dedic would mark Newcastle's sixth summer signing - and only their second over the age of 20 - following the arrivals of goalkeepers Ewen Jaouen and Lukas Hornicek, midfielders Aladji Bamba and Sean Steur, and winger Bazoumana Toure.

Dedic joined Benfica in the summer of 2025 following a loan spell at Marseille. The Bosnian defender already boasts silverware on his resume, having won the Austrian Bundesliga with Red Bull Salzburg in the 2022-23 season and lifting the Supertaca Candido de Oliveira with Benfica in 2025.

Though the Austrian-born defender endured a tough night at St James' Park during Benfica's 3-0 Champions League defeat last season - where Anthony Gordon constantly exposed him - Newcastle believe he will continue his development and reach new heights under Jaissle's guidance.