Rafik Belghali wanted by Newcastle as transfer battle intensifies

Newcastle United have emerged as a potential destination for Algerian international Rafik Belghali, with the Premier League club reportedly considering a move for the versatile full-back before the summer transfer window closes.

Belghali’s future has become increasingly uncertain after attracting interest from several European clubs, particularly in Italy, following an impressive first season in the country.

The 24-year-old arrived in Italy last summer and quickly established himself as a player capable of attracting attention beyond Serie A.

His performances have now placed him firmly on the radar of several clubs, although Hellas Verona’s financial demands could prove decisive in determining whether he leaves.

Verona, who have been relegated to the Italian second division, are reportedly unwilling to sanction Belghali’s departure for a low fee.

According to reports in the Italian press, the club are seeking between €12m and €15m for the Algeria international if a transfer is to be completed before the window shuts.

That valuation could make negotiations difficult, but interest in the defender continues to grow as the final stages of the transfer window approach.

Newcastle have now entered the picture.

According to specialist Italian outlet TuttoMercatoWeb, the Premier League club are among the sides showing strong interest in Belghali.

A formal proposal from the Magpies in the coming days has not been ruled out, potentially adding another major contender to an increasingly competitive race for the defender.

Belghali’s rising reputation has been strengthened by both his club performances and his international displays.

After an encouraging debut season in Italy, the full-back impressed further while representing Algeria at the 2026 World Cup.

Those performances have contributed to a significant increase in his profile and could now open the door to a move to England.

For Belghali, a transfer to the Premier League would represent another major stage in his career.

The Algerian has already made the move from his homeland to Italy and established himself strongly enough to attract attention from clubs across Europe.

A move to Newcastle would provide him with the opportunity to test himself in the English top flight and continue his development at a higher level of European football.

However, Verona’s asking price remains an important factor.

The Italian club’s reported €12m-€15m valuation means any interested side will need to meet significant financial demands to secure the defender.

With Newcastle now reportedly among the clubs monitoring his situation, the final weeks of the summer transfer window could determine where Belghali plays next.

For now, his future remains unresolved, but the growing interest from Newcastle has added another significant development to the transfer race surrounding the Algerian international.