Key Takeaways:
- Newcastle are exploring the potential short-term signing of Kurt Zouma
- The 31-year-old is available as a free agent after being recently released by CFR Cluj
- Eddie Howe is facing significant defensive shortages due to injuries to Fabian Schär, Valentino Livramento, and Emil Krafth
Defensive Reinforcements Under Consideration
Newcastle United are reportedly weighing up the addition of central defender Kurt Zouma on a contract running until the end of the season. Sources in England indicate that manager Eddie Howe is considering Zouma, who has previous Premier League experience, as an option to alleviate defensive difficulties brought on by a lengthy list of injuries to key players.
🚨 Newcastle United’s search for a new centre-back has seen them consider a move for free agent Kurt Zouma.
Zouma has been without a club since leaving Romanian side CFR Cluj, by mutual consent, this January. Despite signing a 1-a-and-half year deal in September, he made just… pic.twitter.com/37I5wmfDl0
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) January 28, 2026
Kurt Zouma’s Recent Situation
The 31-year-old defender is currently a free agent after his recent release from Romanian side CFR Cluj, just a few days ago. Zouma previously played for West Ham United in the top flight, offering the sort of experience Newcastle desire as they look to strengthen their backline for the remainder of the season.
Manager Eddie Howe’s Selection Headache
Eddie Howe has seen his defensive ranks depleted by injury setbacks to several important squad members, including Fabian Schär, Valentino Livramento, and Emil Krafth. The club are thus in the market for reliable cover and believe Zouma could offer an experienced solution on a temporary basis.
| Player | Status | Recent Club | Position | Potential Contract Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kurt Zouma | Free Agent | CFR Cluj | Central Defender | Until end of current season |
Previous Scandal During West Ham Tenure
Kurt Zouma was previously at the centre of a serious controversy during his spell with West Ham United. At that time, videos emerged in the media showing him kicking his own cat, which sparked public outrage and was cited as the reason for his eventual release from the club.
