Newcastle agree deal to sign Dedic from Benfica

Newcastle United have completed a transfer agreement with Benfica to secure the services of defender Amar Dedic, strengthening their backline for the Premier League campaign. The Austrian international joins the Magpies after establishing himself as a reliable right-back at the Portuguese giants, where he made 89 appearances across all competitions. This acquisition represents Newcastle's continued investment in defensive reinforcement under sporting director Dan Ashworth, as the club aims to build on their impressive third-place finish in the 2023-24 Premier League season.

Dedic, 24, brings valuable European experience from his time at Benfica, where he competed in the UEFA Champions League and helped the Lisbon club maintain their status as one of Portugal's elite sides. The defender's move to St James' Park comes as Newcastle seeks to challenge for European qualification once again, having finished just five points behind second-placed Arsenal last season. Standing 185 centimetres tall, Dedic's physical attributes and tactical awareness make him an ideal fit for the demanding pace of English football, while his left-footed technical ability provides versatility in the back line alongside existing squad members.

The transfer further demonstrates Newcastle's ambition following their investment-backed takeover and positions the club to compete across all fronts, including potential European commitments in the upcoming campaign. Dedic's arrival adds depth to a defensive unit that will need to maintain consistency throughout a congested fixture schedule. The Austrian international will undergo medical examinations before completing final formalities, with Newcastle already preparing registration documentation for their newest recruit as they continue their squad building ahead of the new season.