Credit: Imago

Evan Lloyd

Thu 16 April 2026 7:00, UK

Follow us on Google Discover

Newcastle United will have a big advantage in the race to sign Marcos Senesi if they appoint Andoni Iraola this summer.

The Argentine defender is set to be out of contract at the Vitality Stadium this summer, and has shown no indication of signing a new deal.

The same can be said of Iraola, with the Cherries confirming on Tuesday that the Spaniard will leave the club in the coming weeks despite their attempts to retain him.

The Magpies are among the clubs heavily linked with a move for the 43-year-old, who is expected to attract interest throughout Europe.

Newcastle transfer chiefs will have already been strongly considering a move for Senesi, who has been extremely impressive this season.

Newcastle handed Marcos Senesi boost

Football Insider exclusively revealed in February that Newcastle are showing strong interest in Senesi this summer, along with several other clubs.

Spanish giants Barcelona are the favourites to sign the 28-year-old, who has enjoyed another fine season.

Tottenham and Aston Villa are also expected to be in the race, although a potential relegation would presumably end the London club’s chances.

Senesi joined Bournemouth in 2022, signing from Feyenoord in a deal reportedly worth around £13million.

The defender has since made 122 appearances for the Cherries and has rose back to prominence this season after spending much of the last campaign sat behind Dean Huijsen and Illya Zabarnyi.

The Argentine, who received his second and third international caps last month, initially arrived under Scott Parker, but had a new manager in Gary O’Neil by the end of the month.

After his first full season, Iraola arrived, and Senesi became a key part of his defence. Just 13 players have ever made more appearances under the Spaniard than the defender throughout his managerial career.

Should his manager be appointed by Newcastle, it would not be a surprise to see the centre-back follow him.

Andoni Iraola yet to indicate next move

Several dominoes will have to fall before Newcastle can begin to think about signing Senesi.

While Eddie Howe’s future is in doubt, decision-makers are yet to indicate that the 48-year-old will be dismissed this summer.

The Magpies have faced an extremely disappointing season, and look set to miss out on Europe altogether if they finish in the bottom half.

Yet Howe retains support at St James’ Park, and a decision to relieve him of his duties will not be taken lightly.

The availability of Iraola could well be a key factor, although competition for the Spaniard’s services will be fierce.