Newcastle United Have Set Their Sights On This Ligue 1 Defender: Good Choice For Howe? | OneFootball

In a recent report, The Daily Mail claimed that Newcastle United have set their sights on Olympique Marseille defender Leonardo Balerdi. It has been stated that the Magpies are eager to get a deal done for the Argentine centre-back as they look to bolster their defence this summer.

Balerdi’s Impressive Form In French Football

Balerdi enjoyed a decent run of form at the French club in the previous campaign when he put in a string of solid performances at the heart of their backline. The Argentine talent made 29 appearances for Marseille last season but failed to register a goal on all fronts.

The 26-year-old was a rock at the back as he made 54 tackles, 25 blocks and 38 interceptions in Ligue 1 football. He was even tidy when distributing possession from inside his half based on his pass completion rate of 93.8% in the English top tier (stats via fbref.com).

His current deal at the French club will run out in the summer of 2028. Therefore, the Magpies would have to make a big offer if they are serious about recruiting Balerdi this off-season.

HAMBURG, GERMANY – FEBRUARY 15: Leonardo Balerdi of Marseille looks dejected following the UEFA Europa League 2023/24 Knockout Round Play-offs First Leg match between FC Shakhtar Donetsk and Olympique de Marseille at Volksparkstadion on February 15, 2024 in Hamburg, Germany. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)

Is Balerdi A Good Choice For Newcastle United Boss Eddie Howe?

Balerdi is a solid tackler of the ball and can time his challenges well to earn possession back for his team inside his half. He usually puts his foot through the ball when the opposition are on the front foot and is proficient at playing his way out from the back.

Standing at 1.87m, Balerdi is a strong presence in the air as well. However, he might need some time to adjust to the high intensity of the Premier League if Newcastle United manage to bring him on board this off-season.

We can expect Balerdi to add more bite and steel to Eddie Howe’s defence. He has what it takes to fight for a regular first-team place at the Tyneside club in the coming years.

At 26, Balerdi has his peak years ahead of him which makes him a decent choice for the Magpies to pursue in this summer transfer window. However, Howe would have to give him some time before he can get the best out of the talented defender at St. James’ Park.