Liverpool, Newcastle rival Barcelona in free-transfer race for 29-year-old defensive ace | OneFootball

Jonathan Tah, the 29-year-old centre-back from Bayer Leverkusen, is becoming one of the most sought-after defenders in Europe as his contract nears its end on 30 June.

The German international has confirmed that he will not remain at the Bundesliga club beyond this season, a statement that has triggered widespread interest from top teams across the continent.

As has been reported previously, Tah and Barcelona have a verbal commitment over a transfer in the summer. The defender has the backing of Barça manager Hansi Flick, having worked with him during the latter’s tenure with the German national team.

However, a formal agreement has not yet been signed between the two parties, leaving the doors open for other clubs to swoop in.

Newcastle United enter race for Tah

Now, according to reports in England as relayed by Mundo Deportivo, Newcastle United have now entered the race to sign Tah, joining Barcelona and other top clubs in the German’s pursuit.

Moreover, Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur have also shown an interest in the German international.

Jonathan Tah is a man in demand. (Photo by Daniel Kopatsch/Getty Images)

The English clubs are very keen to sign the experienced star, who would be available on a free transfer.

In recent days, Real Madrid have also emerged as a potential destination for the 29-year-old, especially if current Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso ends up at the Santiago Bernabeu in the coming weeks.

Tah remains keen on Barcelona

Tah, for his part, is enthusiastic about the prospect of playing for Barcelona and continues to give them top priority.

However, before any move can materialise, the Catalan club must resolve several issues. First, they need to meet financial fair play requirements. Second, the club must address the current structure of their central defence, which presently includes six players.

Andreas Christensen and Eric Garcia, who is earning his place and pushing for a renewal, are both under contract until 2026.

Meanwhile, Ronald Araujo has a release clause that allows him to leave during a specific period in July for a lower fee if he feels he is not receiving the role he desires.

But with interest in Tah growing by the day, Barcelona must make swift decisions and move quickly if they intend to come out on top in this transfer race.