Newcastle to fight Tottenham for Lens defender in transfer battle
Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly set to go head-to-head in the upcoming January transfer window as they compete to secure the signature of Lens’ highly-rated center-back, Abdukodir Khusanov. According to The Telegraph, the 20-year-old Uzbekistan international has emerged as one of Ligue 1’s most promising defensive talents this season, drawing the interest of several top European clubs, including Paris Saint-Germain and other Premier League sides. The battle for Khusanov’s services is expected to intensify as his reputation continues to rise.
Khusanov joined Lens in the summer of 2023 from Belarusian club Energetik-BGU Minsk for a modest fee of just £83,000. Despite his recent arrival, he has wasted no time establishing himself as a key figure in Lens’ defensive setup under manager Will Still. The young defender has started nine out of Lens’ 13 league matches this season, playing a pivotal role in their defensive solidity. Lens currently boast one of the best defensive records in Ligue 1, having conceded just 12 goals — a figure bettered only by reigning champions Paris Saint-Germain.
Newcastle’s interest in Khusanov is driven by their current defensive challenges. Sven Botman’s ongoing knee injury has left a void in Eddie Howe’s backline, with the Dutch defender having missed the entire season so far. Although there is optimism that Botman and club captain Jamal Lascelles will return in the coming weeks, the Magpies are keen to shore up their defensive options with a reliable, long-term solution. Howe views Khusanov as an ideal candidate due to his ability to play not only as a central defender but also as a defensive midfielder. This versatility would provide Newcastle with additional tactical flexibility and much-needed depth.
However, Newcastle will have to fend off fierce competition from Tottenham Hotspur, who are also eager to bolster their defensive ranks. Spurs manager Ange Postecoglou has been seeking reinforcements to solidify the backline and ensure defensive consistency as the club pushes for a top-four finish. Adding a young, talented defender like Khusanov fits Tottenham’s strategy of blending youthful promise with experienced leadership. Postecoglou’s high-pressing, aggressive style of play could benefit from Khusanov’s composure, tactical awareness, and adaptability.
Lens, currently positioned seventh in Ligue 1, are aware of the growing interest in their young star and face a tough decision regarding his future. While they would prefer to retain Khusanov’s services for the remainder of the season, the financial allure of a January transfer could prove hard to resist. Currently valued at around £25 million, Khusanov represents a significant potential profit for Lens. There is speculation that if they believe he has yet to reach his full potential, the French club might consider delaying any sale until the summer to maximize his market value.
Nevertheless, should Newcastle or Tottenham present a compelling offer in January, Lens may opt to cash in rather than risk a dip in the player’s performance or market value. With European giants like PSG also monitoring the situation, the competition for Khusanov’s signature is set to be fierce. The outcome of this transfer pursuit could hinge on which club can offer the most persuasive package, both financially and in terms of career development.
For Newcastle, securing a young, talented defender like Khusanov would not only address their immediate defensive concerns but also represent a smart long-term investment. Meanwhile, for Tottenham, adding Khusanov to their squad would enhance their defensive depth and align with Postecoglou’s vision of building a dynamic and resilient team.
The race for Abdukodir Khusanov’s signature promises to be one of the more intriguing storylines of the January transfer window. Whichever club wins this battle could be landing a defender capable of making a significant impact for years to come.
