Newcastle United has signed defender Amar Dedic from Benfica for £30m, completing a five-year deal after a medical on Tyneside. The 24-year-old Bosnia-Herzegovina international reunites with manager Matthias Jaissle, who previously coached him at Red Bull Salzburg, and could debut against Liverpool on August 23.
Newcastle United has finalized the £30m signing of defender Amar Dedic from Benfica, securing the 24-year-old Bosnia-Herzegovina international on a five-year contract. The transfer, confirmed after a medical on Tyneside, marks a reunion between Dedic and manager Matthias Jaissle, who previously worked with him at Red Bull Salzburg. Dedic, who could feature in Newcastle’s season opener against Liverpool on August 23, expressed excitement about joining the Premier League club on Tuesday, his 24th birthday.
Dedic’s Excitement and Reunion with Jaissle
It's a special feeling and a really big honour for me to join Newcastle United,
Dedic said after the move was announced. I'm really happy to be here and can't wait to start playing for the club and the amazing fans.
He emphasized that working with Jaissle again was a key factor in his decision, noting, We know each other well. He knows what I can bring on the pitch and I'm really happy to be playing for him again.
Jaissle, who coached Dedic during his time at Red Bull Salzburg, described the defender as athletic, aggressive and technically very good
and highlighted his potential for development in a statement.
Dedic’s move comes as Newcastle seeks to replace right-back Kieran Trippier, who left for Wolves this summer. The defender, who made 95 appearances for Salzburg before joining Benfica last year, has 31 caps for Bosnia-Herzegovina and participated in the 2022 World Cup. His ability to play on either flank has been praised by Newcastle’s sporting director, Ross Wilson, who called him a modern full-back
capable of “strengthening” the squad in a statement.
Transfer Fee Discrepancies and Benfica’s Role
Newcastle’s Defensive Strategy and Injuries
Newcastle’s decision to sign Dedic underscores their need for defensive reinforcement following Trippier’s exit. The club also faces injury concerns, with right-back Tino Livramento sidelined after a calf injury sustained during England duty. Jaissle indicated Dedic could be called upon quickly, stating, He will bring both defensive and attacking qualities to our squad, which suits the style of football that we want to play
in a statement.
Dedic’s versatility as a full-back aligns with Newcastle’s tactical approach, combining defensive solidity with offensive contributions. His career statistics, including 49 carries into the attacking third and 202 progressive carries in Portugal’s Primeira Liga last season, have been cited as key attributes in analysis.
Fan Reactions and Future Expectations
The announcement has generated enthusiasm among Newcastle fans, who anticipate Dedic’s impact on the pitch.
As Newcastle prepares for their season opener against Liverpool, the focus will shift to how quickly Dedic adapts to the club’s style. His ability to contribute both defensively and offensively could be pivotal, especially with Livramento’s absence.
