Newcastle United are plotting an ambitious summer move for Bayer Leverkusen’s defensive rock Jonathan Tah — but they’re not alone in the race.
According to Football Insider, the Magpies have joined a growing list of elite clubs chasing the German international, who is set to become a free agent this summer. With his contract expiring, Tah has become one of the most sought-after names on the market, attracting interest from European giants including Real Madrid and Barcelona.
After missing out on defensive reinforcements last summer — despite multiple failed attempts to sign Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace — Newcastle are determined not to repeat the same mistake. Eddie Howe is prioritising a top-level centre-back as the club prepares for a return to Champions League football, and Tah’s combination of experience, leadership, and availability makes him an ideal target.
Still only 29, Tah has been a standout performer for Leverkusen and was instrumental in their remarkable Bundesliga title-winning campaign under Xabi Alonso. Signing him on a free transfer would be a massive coup, not just financially, but in terms of raising Newcastle’s European pedigree.
Barcelona, reportedly frontrunners in the race, are desperate to strengthen their backline without breaking the bank — and Tah fits the bill perfectly. However, they face fierce competition from arch-rivals Real Madrid, who may hold the trump card.
With Xabi Alonso tipped to succeed Carlo Ancelotti at the Santiago Bernabéu, there’s growing speculation that the Leverkusen boss could bring his trusted centre-back along for the ride. If that happens, Newcastle and Barcelona could find themselves watching from the sidelines.
Tah’s next move will no doubt be one of the most closely watched transfer sagas of the summer. For Newcastle, landing the German would send a strong message: the Magpies are not just here to compete — they’re here to win.
