Prem side ‘match’ Newcastle bid for defensive target

Jason Soutar
Reported Newcastle target Diego Carlos competes for the ball in the air

An unnamed Premier League side has matched the bid made by Newcastle for Sevilla defender Diego Carlos, according to reports.

The Magpies are extremely interested in bringing the Brazilian to St James’ Park this month as they aim to avoid relegation this season.

They have been working hard to get a deal done before their league match against Leeds on Saturday.


Just give it Big Dunc ’til the end of the season, Everton


However, Sevilla are holding out for more than the €35million Newcastle have put on the table.

Fabrizio Romano claims that personal terms with Carlos have already been agreed. The defender will reportedly be on “life-changing” wages at St James’.

He adds that there is “no doubt” on the player’s side over the move. He is eager to join the Magpies this month.

Despite Sevilla wanting more than the €35m bid placed by the Geordies, another Premier League side has matched the offer, according to Sky Sports.

They add that an Italian club have also placed a bid for the 28-year-old defender which is thought to be lower than €35m.

Any bid in this region is very likely to be rejected, so this news has potentially emerged as a ploy to get Newcastle to up their offer.

Spanish journalist Guillem Balague believes the Magpies “will have to get close to at least double their offer”. Carlos reportedly has an €85m release clause.

Elsewhere, Charlie Nicholas doesn’t think there’s a “standout option” to become Arsenal captain with Aaron Ramsdale playing in the wrong position.

Nicholas told MyBettingSites: “Aaron Ramsdale shouldn’t be Arsenal’s captain because he’s a goalkeeper. His character has been absolutely spot on and it’s been a real treat.

“He arrived with a lot of doubters because of his price tag but he’s ambitious, hungry and wants to prove that he belongs here. He’s been first class for Arsenal, has the captain’s instinct and he’s an organiser. That’s a positive Arsenal can build on.

“Ben White has real quality and he’s going to be a top player for the Gunners, but in his interviews, it comes across as though he’s not fussed about being the main man. He’s quite soft in his approach to the game off the pitch and that’s just the kind of person he is.”