Newcastle United’s defence has faced heavy scrutiny this season, and their form has shifted between control and chaos. Eddie Howe keeps searching for stability at the back. Injuries to key players such as Sven Botman have added even more pressure.
Those injuries have exposed the lack of depth and resilience in the backline. The club holds PIF’s financial backing but faces limits from PSR rules. It has reached a crucial point now. Amid these issues, Tutto Juve reports that Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur both target Juventus defender Pierre Kalulu.
Newcastle United want to sign Pierre Kalulu
The 25-year-old Frenchman, valued at around €30 million, has earned praise in Italy for his versatility and calmness on the ball. He joined Juventus permanently in June 2025 after enjoying a strong loan spell. Thiago Motta helped him grow as a player during that time.
Kalulu plays both as a centre-back and right-back, which makes him an appealing option for any top club. The 25-year-old delivers accurate passes and carries the ball forward with composure. These traits fit perfectly with Howe’s system, which builds play from the back.
At Tottenham, the situation looks different but equally interesting. The north London club’s pursuit of Kalulu shows their intent to fix a defence that often looks shaky. Tottenham can easily outbid the Magpies if they choose to act.
However, Newcastle United aim to build their project on steady progress and clear purpose. That approach might offer the Frenchman more value than fame. Interestingly, we reported earlier that Newcastle United plan to bring back Elliot Anderson. That move shows how they aim to rebuild with both youth and quality.
The tug of ambition and opportunity
Motta’s possession-based football has transformed Kalulu into a defender who values awareness, discipline, and smart decision-making. He stays fit and consistent throughout the season. Newcastle desperately need those qualities as their defence ages.
Dan Burn and Fabian Schär both enter their thirties, which increases the need for more energy and depth. Kalulu can provide both. Meanwhile, Tottenham’s interest adds more tension to the transfer story. Their financial power and wider spotlight make them a strong competitor, but Kalulu must decide whether he values importance or exposure more.
If Newcastle go on to sign him, they will regain the defensive stability they have missed. A partnership between Botman and Kalulu will provide Howe a dependable base for years. However, Tottenham’s move keeps the situation uncertain.
They hold the funds to finalise the deal faster. Newcastle United want to sign Joel Ordonez as well, showing their broader plan to refresh the backline. The main question remains whether Newcastle’s vision and commitment can outweigh Tottenham’s pull. If they succeed, Kalulu will strengthen their defence and turn inconsistency into lasting stability.
