Newcastle United have reportedly reached an agreement to sign Bosnia and Herzegovina international Amar Dedić from Portuguese giants Benfica, in a move that could give manager Matthias Jaissle another familiar and versatile option for his defensive unit.
The proposed transfer is understood to be worth around €35 million, with a sell on clause also included in the agreement. Dedić had reportedly agreed personal terms with Newcastle several days earlier, while negotiations between the clubs progressed toward a conclusion.
The move is particularly interesting because of Dedić’s existing relationship with Jaissle. The Bosnian defender previously worked under the German coach during his development at Red Bull Salzburg, making the Newcastle manager an important figure in the latest stage of his career.
Dedić is reportedly keen on the switch to St James’ Park, with the opportunity to reunite with Jaissle understood to have played a significant role in his decision. Newcastle are looking to strengthen at full back after the departure of experienced defender Kieran Trippier, while Tino Livramento has also faced fitness issues during pre season.
The 23 year old was born in Zell am See, Austria, on August 18, 2002, but represents Bosnia and Herzegovina internationally. He developed through the Austrian football system after joining the Red Bull Salzburg academy as a teenager, having previously spent time with LUV Graz and Sturm Graz.
His development at Salzburg played a major role in establishing him as one of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s most promising young defenders.
Dedić began his senior career with Salzburg’s feeder club Liefering and made his professional debut as a teenager. He later spent time on loan at Wolfsberger AC, where he gained valuable experience playing regular senior football before returning to Salzburg and establishing himself at the Austrian giants.
Under Jaissle, Dedić became increasingly important. The defender made 52 appearances under the German coach at Salzburg and contributed to the team’s success during that period. His ability to operate in different defensive roles also made him particularly valuable to a manager who appreciates tactical flexibility.
Dedić primarily operates as a right back, but his versatility allows him to play on the left side as well. He has also been used in more advanced positions and as an inverted full back, giving his manager additional tactical options.
That flexibility could be especially useful for Newcastle, who are attempting to build a squad capable of competing across several competitions.
The Bosnian defender moved to Benfica in 2025 after leaving Salzburg. Before making the switch to Portugal, he had a brief loan spell with French club Marseille, where he gained experience in Ligue 1. Benfica subsequently brought him to Portugal as part of their plans for the defensive department.
His first season in Lisbon was productive. Dedić made 43 appearances for Benfica across competitions during the 2025/26 campaign, underlining his importance to the Portuguese side. He also featured prominently for Bosnia and Herzegovina during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The defender’s international career has also progressed quickly.
Dedić represented Bosnia and Herzegovina at youth level before receiving his senior call up in 2022. He made his senior debut against Luxembourg in March of that year and scored his first international goal against Iceland during the Euro 2024 qualifying campaign in March 2023.
His performances have since established him as an important member of the Bosnian national team.
Technically, Dedić offers several qualities that explain Newcastle’s interest. He is comfortable carrying the ball from defence, possesses good pace and can contribute in attacking areas. His experience playing as an inverted full back also means he can move into central areas during possession and help his team control the midfield.
His defensive versatility could prove equally valuable in the Premier League, where full backs are increasingly expected to contribute at both ends of the pitch.
Newcastle’s interest also appears to fit into the club’s wider recruitment strategy under Jaissle. Rather than simply pursuing experienced names, the Magpies have increasingly looked toward younger players with significant development potential.
Dedić fits that profile perfectly.
He is still only 23, yet already has experience in Austria, France and Portugal, as well as international football. That combination could make the transition to English football smoother than it would be for a player coming directly from a less competitive environment.
Benfica were reportedly reluctant to lose the defender, particularly after his contribution during the previous season. The Portuguese club had been seeking around €35 million for the player, while Newcastle initially appeared reluctant to meet the full valuation. Recent reports, however, indicate that the clubs have now moved toward an agreement at the €35 million level.
Dedić also featured for Benfica in their recent Europa League qualifying campaign against Hearts, playing the full match in the 1 1 draw in Edinburgh and hitting the post with a header. Newcastle representatives were reportedly present to watch him closely.
If the transfer is completed as reported, Dedić will arrive in England with considerable responsibility on his shoulders.
Newcastle supporters will expect him to provide defensive stability, attacking energy and the versatility required to handle the demands of Premier League football.
For Jaissle, the signing would also represent a reunion with a player whose development he already understands.
That familiarity could be one of Dedić’s biggest advantages as he begins a new chapter at St James’ Park.
From a teenage prospect developed in Austria to a full international and established European defender, Dedić’s career has progressed rapidly.
Now, with a reported €35 million move to Newcastle United on the verge of completion, the Bosnian defender has another opportunity to prove himself on one of football’s biggest stages.
