Newcastle United has finalized the signing of defender Amar Dedic from Benfica for approximately £30 million. Dedic, who celebrated his 24th birthday on Tuesday, has agreed to a five-year contract with the Premier League club.
Dedic completed his medical on Tyneside on Monday and expressed his enthusiasm about the move. "It's a special feeling and a really big honour for me to join Newcastle United," he stated. "I'm really happy to be here and can't wait to start playing for the club and the amazing fans."
His reunion with manager Matthias Jaissle was a significant factor in the transfer. The pair previously worked together at Red Bull Salzburg, where they won the Austrian title in 2023. "Working with Matthias again was a big factor for me. 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," Dedic added. He also conveyed his excitement about playing in the Premier League at St James' Park, describing the atmosphere as "really special."
Newcastle had been seeking a new right-back following the departure of Kieran Trippier, who transferred to Wolves on a free transfer earlier this summer. Manager Jaissle noted that Dedic's arrival addresses the need for a player with both defensive and attacking capabilities, aligning with the team's desired style of play. "He's a player who I know really well, having worked with him from a young age in Austria and followed his career since," Jaissle said. "He will bring both defensive and attacking qualities to our squad, which suits the style of football that we want to play. He's athletic, aggressive and technically very good, but also has a lot of potential to develop further."
Dedic could be in contention for Newcastle's season opener against Liverpool on Sunday, as Tino Livramento is still recovering from a calf injury sustained in June.