Newcastle and Leverkusen vie for 20‑year‑old Dayann Methalie

Newcastle United and Bayer Leverkusen are both targeting 20‑year‑old French left‑back Dayann Methalie. The Toulouse defender, who spent the past season as the club’s preferred left wing‑back in Ligue 1, has attracted interest from the Premier League side and the Bundesliga side alike.

Methalie also features regularly for France’s Under‑21 squad, underscoring his rising profile. His performances this year have placed him among the brightest young defensive talents in Europe.

Newcastle first added Methalie to their shortlist last summer and intensified their pursuit during the January transfer window. A potential move was halted when a knee injury sidelined him for around six weeks, prompting the club to wait for his full recovery.

Bayer Leverkusen’s interest is bolstered by former Toulouse coach Carles Martínez Novell, who worked closely with Methalie during his development. Martínez Novell believes the defender has every attribute required to become one of Europe’s leading wing backs.

Leverkusen may also need a replacement for Alejandro Grimaldo if the Spaniard departs for Atletico Madrid. Methalie is identified as a leading candidate to fill the vacancy, offering the club a potential solution alongside Champions League football.

Eddie Howe values Methalie’s versatility, noting his ability to operate as both a wing‑back and a traditional full‑back within a high‑intensity system. The club’s recruitment strategy favours young players who can develop over several seasons rather than established stars at inflated prices.

Relationships are pivotal in the final decision, with Martínez Novell’s prior work with Methalie giving Leverkusen an emotional edge. Newcastle’s measured approach under Howe means negotiations could conclude quickly in the coming weeks.