Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer has claimed that Crystal Palace centre-back Marc Guehi could be crucial if the club are to enjoy any success this season.
Guehi has been strongly linked with a move to St. James' Park this summer, but with the transfer window closing on August 31, a deal needs to be struck sooner rather than later if the club want the 24-year-old to be a part of their future plans.
The Crystal Palace defender rose to prominence after a successful Euro 2024 campaign with England where he was one of two first choice central defenders alongside John Stones.
However, with Newcastle undergoing a number of changes off the pitch, Shearer is hoping this does not affect any of the club's transfer dealings over the coming weeks and claims a signing of Guehi's stature will be a statement to the rest of the Premier League.
"It's been a tough summer for Newcastle with Amanda Staveley leaving and with the speculation around Eddie Howe and England. Hopefully things will settle down and we're able to make another signing or two," Shearer told Betfair.
"It'll be a real statement if Newcastle spend £55 million - £60 million on a central defender.
"Guehi was one of England's best players at the Euros so if they can get him then it'd be a real statement signing."
Newcastle's first game of the season is on Saturday when they welcome newly promoted Southampton to St. James' Park.
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