On August 29, 2024, Newcastle United’s transfer activities have hit a significant stumbling block. The club’s pursuit of alternatives to Marc Guehi has encountered a major setback with the news that Mohamed Simakan is set to join Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr. According to Fabrice Hawkins from RMC Sport, Al Nassr has agreed to terms with RB Leipzig for Simakan’s transfer, reportedly valued at €45 million.
As the transfer window nears its close, Newcastle United faces increasing scrutiny over its summer transfer dealings. The departure of Mohamed Simakan to Al Nassr represents a missed opportunity for Newcastle, who were exploring him as an alternative to their primary target, Marc Guehi. The sudden agreement between Al Nassr and RB Leipzig for Simakan’s €45 million transfer has exposed a gap in Newcastle’s defensive plans.
The club’s withdrawal from the Guehi negotiations earlier on August 29 has intensified the situation. Guehi, who was Newcastle’s top priority, remains with Crystal Palace despite extensive talks. Palace’s firm stance on their valuation of Guehi—reportedly around £70 million—combined with recent defensive injuries at Selhurst Park, has complicated the deal further. The absence of a backup option like Simakan only exacerbates Newcastle’s difficulties in reinforcing their defense.
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The timing of these developments is particularly problematic. With the transfer window closing at 11 p.m. tomorrow, Newcastle’s window to finalize any further deals is rapidly shrinking. The club must act quickly to secure a centre-back or another defensive solution to ensure they are well-equipped for the season ahead. The current situation highlights the urgency for Newcastle to reassess their options and possibly accelerate negotiations with other targets.
Additionally, this predicament raises questions about Newcastle’s transfer strategy and execution. The club’s inability to close deals for key targets and the failure to secure a viable alternative could impact their performance and ambitions this season. With only hours remaining in the transfer window, Newcastle’s management faces the challenge of making decisive moves to address their defensive needs and avoid a potentially damaging end to their summer transfer activities.
For supporters, the situation is a source of frustration and concern. The uncertainty surrounding the club’s transfer targets and the missed opportunities may affect morale and expectations. The next steps will be crucial for Newcastle, as they strive to reinforce their squad and navigate the final hours of the transfer window effectively.
In summary, Newcastle United’s transfer window has been marked by significant setbacks, including the loss of Mohamed Simakan to Al Nassr and the stalled negotiations for Marc Guehi. As the deadline approaches, the club’s ability to secure defensive reinforcements remains uncertain, placing additional pressure on their final efforts in the transfer market.
Simakan, a 24-year-old French centre-back, was under consideration by Newcastle as a potential substitute if their bid for Guehi fell through. However, it appears that Simakan is now poised to move to Al Nassr, which is part-owned by PIF, the same entity that holds a stake in Newcastle’s ownership group. Simakan is expected to travel to the Middle East for a medical examination and to finalize a five-year contract with Al Nassr, pending the agreement of personal terms.
This development leaves Newcastle in a challenging position as the transfer deadline approaches. The club’s chances of securing a new centre-back before the window closes have diminished significantly, particularly after Newcastle withdrew from negotiations for Guehi earlier in the day. This withdrawal has compounded the urgency and complexity of Newcastle’s remaining transfer efforts.
For fans and commentators, this turn of events highlights a critical moment in Newcastle’s transfer strategy. The failure to secure either Guehi or Simakan could have substantial implications for the squad’s depth and defensive capabilities for the upcoming season.
