Newcastle United complete £30m signing of Benfica defender Amar Dedic
The 24-year-old Bosnia-Herzegovina international completes his move to Tyneside, positioning himself as a potential starter ahead of the season opener against Liverpool.
Newcastle United have finalised the signing of defender Amar Dedic from Benfica for a fee of approximately £30m. The 24-year-old Bosnia-Herzegovina international has committed to a five-year deal with the club, having completed his medical on Tyneside on Monday. The transfer was officially announced on Tuesday, coinciding with Dedic’s birthday.
The move serves to reunite Dedic with manager Matthias Jaissle, with whom he previously won the Austrian title at Red Bull Salzburg in 2023. Dedic cited the opportunity to work with Jaissle again as a significant factor in his decision to join the Premier League side. "Working with Matthias again was a big factor for me. We know each other well," Dedic stated. "He knows what I can bring on the pitch and I'm really happy to be playing for him again."
Newcastle United initiated the search for a new right-back following the departure of veteran Kieran Trippier, who left the club on a free transfer to join Wolves earlier this summer. The acquisition of Dedic addresses this positional need, with the club seeking to bolster its defensive options for the upcoming campaign.
Dedic arrives with international experience, having started three of Bosnia-Herzegovina’s four matches at the recent World Cup. He expressed enthusiasm about the prospect of playing at St James' Park, noting the unique atmosphere of the venue. "Playing Premier League football at St James' Park is going to be really special," he said. "Every game feels like a big occasion, with an amazing atmosphere."
Manager Matthias Jaissle highlighted the defender’s technical and athletic attributes, describing him as aggressive and technically proficient. Jaissle noted that Dedic’s profile suits the style of football the club intends to play, adding that the defender possesses significant potential for further development. "He's a player who I know really well, having worked with him from a young age in Austria," Jaissle said.
The defender could be called upon immediately for the season opener against Liverpool on Sunday. Right-back Tino Livramento is currently recovering from a calf injury sustained while on international duty with England in June, leaving the squad with limited options in that position. Dedic’s arrival provides a ready-made solution should Livramento’s recovery timeline extend beyond the opening fixture.
