Bosnia and Herzegovina defender Amar Dedic has completed a move to Newcastle United from Benfica in a deal worth £29.5million, with one ex-player suggesting the Magpies may have secured quite the signing.
The 24-year-old full-back previously worked alongside Newcastle head coach Matthias Jaissle during their time together at RB Salzburg. Dedic arrived at the Portuguese club from Austrian outfit Liefering last summer and impressed during his single campaign in Portugal, but what qualities will he bring to St James’ Park?
Former Benfica and Sporting Lisbon stalwart Luis Filipe, who witnessed Dedic’s first appearance for the Eagles in August 2025, believes Newcastle have acquired a composed and self-assured defender capable of winning over demanding supporters immediately.
Filipe, himself a former right-back, observed Dedic closely during his debut match against CD Tondela. The defender was given a standing ovation upon being substituted in the 67th minute after laying on an assist for a teammate.
The performance proved highly impressive from the player who would go on to make 46 appearances for Benfica. The 47-year-old Filipe, speaking to Portuguese publication A Bola last year, explained that Benfica supporters are known for their demanding nature but Dedic had already won them over completely.
Regarding the attributes Dedic could provide to Newcastle, Filipe noted the player favours a direct approach with strong offensive instincts. With limited defensive exposure, he enjoyed greater freedom to attack. Defensively there may be areas requiring adjustment, but his willingness to push forward and create mismatches represents a significant asset for a club of Benfica’s stature. Dedic possesses the ability to drift inside from wide positions while also being direct, understanding how to drive centrally and exploit space away from the touchline, which typically constrains opposing full-backs who can only cover one side. His preference for cutting inside opens up additional options and demonstrates strength in advancing the ball into central zones.
Dedic has committed to a five-year contract at Newcastle and will immediately join the squad for Sunday’s Premier League curtain-raiser against Liverpool.
The defender expressed his delight at joining Newcastle on his 24th birthday, stating how honoured he felt and how eager he was to begin playing for the club and its passionate supporters. He acknowledged that reuniting with Jaissle played a significant role in his decision, noting their familiarity with each other’s abilities. Playing top-flight football at St James’ Park, with every match feeling like a significant occasion amid tremendous atmosphere, represented something he was greatly looking forward to.