An aerial view of St James’ Park before the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Manchester United on April 02, 2023. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
RC Lens defender Abdukodir Khusanov is open to joining Newcastle United in January, according to reports.
Despite their strong recent form, the Magpies have looked poor at the back this season, conceding 21 goals in 18 Premier League matches so far.
Eddie Howe would certainly welcome defensive reinforcements and has been heavily linked with Tottenham and Leeds United as well as Newcastle Khusanov.
Still only 20 years old, Khusanov has made 31 senior appearances for Lens across all competitions since joining the club in 2023.
The centre-back has been capped 18 times for the Uzbekistan national team and is already seen as one of his country’s best players.
According to a recent report (via Newcastle World), Khusanov is open to a move in January and has instructed agent Jorge Mendes to start raising interest — Newcastle being one of his preferred destinations.
Newcastle have called for Bruno Guimaraes to be retained
While Khusanov may be a new face at St James’ Park, there are plenty of Newcastle stars whose futures are up in the air.
Bruno Guimaraes is someone who has often been linked with a move away over the past 12 months, with Manchester City believed to be serious admirers.
But former Premier League striker Stan Collymore has urged the club to hold on to the Brazilian for now, even if there is a ‘wise time’ to accept a bid.
“I think Newcastle would be crazy to sell Bruno Guimaraes in January,” he told CatOffside. Exclusive column.
“If the rumors of Man City’s interest are correct, then at the end of the season, when City will do a technical and tactical review and see where they are, it may be a more sensible time for the Magpies to consider cashing in. .
“He could be a player that City feel can turn things around, but certainly not in January.”
