Birmingham City have reportedly made enquiries about a late move for experienced Newcastle United defender Jamaal Lascelles as the transfer window draws to a close.
Championship Clubs Circle for Newcastle Captain
According to Sky Sports, Birmingham City are among six Championship clubs that have expressed interest in the 32-year-old centre-back, who is approaching the final months of his contract at St James' Park. Leicester City are also understood to be among the clubs monitoring Lascelles' situation.
Limited Opportunities at Newcastle
Lascelles has found first-team opportunities severely limited this season, playing just two league matches for a combined total of 19 minutes. His most recent appearance came in September during Newcastle's 2-1 defeat to Arsenal.
The experienced defender finds himself behind several players in the Newcastle pecking order, including Sven Botman, Dan Burn, Malick Thiaw, Fabian Schar and Emil Krafth. This lack of playing time has prompted speculation about a potential departure before the transfer deadline.
Newcastle's Longest-Serving Player
Lascelles joined Newcastle United in the summer of 2014 from Nottingham Forest in a joint-deal with Karl Darlow worth approximately £7 million. He has since become the club's longest-serving player, having made 253 appearances across all competitions.
The Derby-born defender captained Newcastle between 2016 and 2024, following in the footsteps of club legends including Alan Shearer and Rob Lee. He led the team to the Championship title in the 2016-17 season while earning a place in the PFA Team of the Season.
Manager's Comments on Potential Departure
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe addressed Lascelles' situation earlier this month, stating: "There's a possibility that he could leave as well. Jamaal's been an incredible servant. He's a great leader for us behind the scenes. So, let's wait and see what happens on his future."
Howe's comments have fuelled speculation that Lascelles could be available for transfer, with West Ham United and several Turkish clubs also reportedly showing interest according to Sun Sport.
Why Lascelles Could Benefit Birmingham
Lascelles would bring considerable experience to Birmingham City's dressing room, having been a central figure in Newcastle's rise from the Championship to regular Premier League competitors. His leadership qualities and aerial threat from set pieces could prove valuable assets for Chris Davies' side.
During his time at Newcastle, Lascelles made 177 Premier League appearances and featured in five Champions League matches during the 2023-24 campaign. He played the full 90 minutes in Newcastle's memorable 4-1 victory over Paris Saint-Germain.
Potential Concerns
Despite his obvious qualities, there are concerns about Lascelles' recent injury history. The defender has only recently returned from an ACL injury and has struggled with various muscle problems over the last few seasons.
If Birmingham City manager Chris Davies can keep Lascelles match-fit, the experienced defender could provide a significant boost to the team's push for a top-six finish in the Championship. His knowledge of winning promotion from the division could prove particularly valuable.
The coming days will reveal whether Birmingham City can secure what would represent a significant coup for their Championship campaign, bringing in a player with extensive Premier League and European experience as they aim to strengthen their defensive options.
