Newcastle ready to force Muharemović deal amid Spurs and United interest

Newcastle United are prepared to step up their pursuit of Tarik Muharemović, as they look to beat competition from Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester United and AFC Bournemouth for the Sassuolo defender.

Interest in the 22-year-old has been building for weeks. Last month, Italian reports revealed Manchester United had been actively scouting the centre-back, with Sassuolo chairman Giovanni Carnevali publicly acknowledging the attention while dismissing Bournemouth’s approach.

Carnevali was also clear that Sassuolo had no intention of selling Muharemović during the January window. Despite that stance, transfer speculation has continued to intensify.

Bosnian outlet SportSport report that Newcastle are now positioning themselves as the most determined suitor. With Eddie Howe facing a defensive injury crisis, the Magpies are expected to prioritise signing a centre-back this month.

Newcastle currently have Fabian Schär, Dan Burn and Jamaal Lascelles sidelined, leaving Howe short of options at the heart of defence.

According to the report, Muharemović has been identified as Newcastle’s primary target, and club officials are willing to “do everything” to secure his signing — even if it means challenging Sassuolo’s public refusal to sell.

While Sassuolo remain adamant they do not want to lose the defender mid-season, SportSport claim Newcastle are ready to test that resolve with a substantial bid.

The Magpies are reportedly considering an offer of 50 million Bosnian marka, equivalent to just over £22 million, a figure that would put them ahead of Tottenham and other Premier League rivals.

The Bosnian outlet suggests that such a proposal could soften Sassuolo’s position and open the door to negotiations, particularly if multiple approaches arrive for the same player.

Muharemović, who represents Bosnia and Herzegovina at international level, is said to be attracting growing excitement back home as speculation intensifies. With several English clubs monitoring him, the defender could soon face a major career decision if bids materialise.

Sassuolo initially signed Muharemović on loan from Juventus in August 2024 before making the move permanent a year later. He is now under contract with the Serie A side until 2031, giving the Italian club a strong negotiating position.

Whether Sassuolo hold firm or reconsider will likely depend on the scale and timing of Newcastle’s approach. With injuries piling up and competition fierce, the Magpies’ willingness to move early could prove decisive.

Should Newcastle break the bank now to fix their defence — or wait until summer for a clearer run at Muharemović?