Opinion: Newcastle Star Should Now Force Exit Following Latest Update
Emil Krafth could be handed a surprise chance to end his Newcastle United stint in the January transfer window.
Swedish defender Emil Krafth is entering the final months of his Newcastle United contract, having agreed to a one-year extension with the club in February 2025.
However, the 31-year-old has found first-team opportunities extremely limited this season, making just one appearance — a start in the Carabao Cup victory over Bradford City.
According to Danish outlet Bold, FC Copenhagen are monitoring Krafth’s situation and could make a move for him in the January transfer window.
With his Newcastle future uncertain, such an opportunity might be one he cannot afford to turn down.
Krafth should take the chance to move on
Krafth’s time as a regular at St James’ Park appears to be over. The club’s depth under Eddie Howe has grown significantly, leaving him far down the pecking order in multiple positions.
At right-back, he sits behind both Tino Livramento and Kieran Trippier, while in the right-sided centre-back role, Malick Thiaw, Fabian Schär, and Jamaal Lascelles are all preferred.
The reality is that too many circumstances would need to align for Krafth to play regularly again.
Though his game has improved since Howe’s arrival, Newcastle’s ambitions in the Premier League and Champions League mean he no longer fits into their long-term plans.
A switch to Copenhagen could be ideal. It would offer him more stability and regular football at a key stage in his career.
On Tyneside, he has only been offered short-term deals, and at 31, he needs a club willing to provide continuity and a leading role.
Newcastle already have a successor ready
Should Krafth depart, Newcastle have a natural successor emerging in Leo Shahar. The 18-year-old has been impressing within the club’s youth ranks and is steadily moving closer to senior-level involvement.
Having trained regularly with the first team for the past year, Shahar is viewed as one of the most promising young defenders at the club.
While Howe may prefer to retain Krafth’s experience for depth, Shahar’s progress suggests the Magpies are well prepared for a transition.
Krafth’s exit could open the door for the teenager to step up and begin his senior journey — ensuring Newcastle continue to evolve while offering Krafth a fresh start elsewhere.
