Newcastle United are in discussions with Bayer Leverkusen defender Edmond Tapsoba over personal terms, according to reports from Germany.
German outlet Fussball Daten reports that talks have so far taken place directly on the player side, with Leverkusen setting an asking price starting at €50m (£43m).
The move signals Newcastle’s intent to address a growing defensive crisis that has been largely overshadowed by their midfield struggles this summer.
Manager Matthias Jaissle inherited a squad that has been significantly weakened and still requires reinforcements across multiple positions heading into the new campaign.
The club’s defensive concerns are very real, with Fabian Schar and Dan Burn both now 34 years old and questions surrounding their long-term futures at the top level.
Sven Botman missed a further 11 games through injury last season, leaving Malick Thiaw to carry much of the defensive burden as the squad’s most dependable centre-back.
Tapsoba would arrive as a title-winning defender, having been part of Leverkusen’s invincible Bundesliga championship-winning campaign, making him one of the most proven options available in the market.
Standing at 6’4, the Burkina Faso international won 70 aerial duels last season and ranked inside the top ten for dribbles completed by centre-backs in the Bundesliga.
His combination of physical dominance and composure in possession would make him an ideal partner for Thiaw in Newcastle’s backline if a deal can be completed.
Newcastle’s summer has been repeatedly disrupted by high-profile rejections, with players including James Trafford and Johan Manzambi opting for alternative clubs over a move to St James’ Park.
Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko both chose Manchester United, while Hugo Ekitike opted for Liverpool, and Liam Delap and Joao Pedro both moved to Chelsea.
Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg chose to remain at Marseille, and Jorgen Strand Larsen stayed with Wolves, illustrating just how difficult Newcastle’s recruitment has been throughout this window.
Tapsoba represents a genuine opportunity to land an elite-level addition, and with Leverkusen open to offers, Newcastle will be hoping their opening talks can quickly progress into a full transfer agreement.