Eddie Howe told to ‘forget’ Newcastle move for Leonardo Balerdi by Marseille

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Marseille have told Newcastle United to forget about signing Argentine star Leonardo Balerdi this summer, TBR Football understands.

Newcastle’s search for a defender means they have done a lot of work on Balerdi and have been watching him closely over the last campaign as he played a starring role for Roberto De Zerbi’s side, helping them finish second in Ligue 1 last season.

Newcastle were hugely impressed with Balerdi, along with Italian giants Juventus.

Sources confirm to TBR Football that both sides made contact with Balerdi’s representatives and have made enquiries with Marseille.

However, we can reveal that Marseille have made it clear they have no intention of losing their captain this summer.

Exclusive: Newcastle warned off Leonardo Balerdi

Graeme Bailey – Chief Correspondent at TBR Football – has been informed Newcastle United have been warned off Balerdi by Marseille.

“Balerdi is a player that Newcastle’s recruitment staff have been really impressed with. He is an outstanding central defender both in and out of possession.

“Newcastle looked into and believed he could be attainable for less than £40million, but I am told that Marseille have made it clear that he is not available.

“Marseille genuinely believe they can push PSG all the way next season, and keeping players like Balerdi is key to their plans.”

Balerdi has been with Marseille since joining from Borussia Dortmund in 2020 and has become one of the most dominant central defenders in France.

Marseille have also added Balerdi’s international team-mate and friend Facundo Medina, on loan from Lens, this summer, which has only solidified his standing at the club.

Lionel Messi’s influence on Balerdi

Balerdi is an international teammate of arguably the greatest of all time, and when on international duty, the legendary footballer gave the centre-back some advice.

Speaking to beIN Sports in 2024, Balerdi stated on Messi: “Leo obviously asks me to be calm and to play the same way I do in the club, that’s the most important thing,” he said.

“And then, obviously, to adapt to the opponent. It depends on the opponent, it depends on the training.

“But obviously, he always asks me to give my 100%, to try to play the same way I do in the club.

“That will lead you to achieve continuity here.”

Advice, he won’t be bringing to St James’ Park this summer – that’s for sure.