Newcastle United have been linked with a move for Atalanta defender Giorgio Scalvini this summer, there are several squad numbers he can choose.
With his current options growing older, it comes as no surprise that Eddie Howe is now looking for reinforcements at centre-back to build a solid defence for the future.
The Newcastle United manager has the likes of Dan Burn, Fabian Schar and Sven Botman at his disposal, but he is eager to bring more youth to his defence at St James’ Park. The Magpies have not made a signing to improve their starting XI for almost two years, but this summer has promised to be a big one.
Newcastle’s first-team squad is loaded with quality players like Bruno Guimaraes and Alexander Isak, but it is clear that new faces are needed to improve their chances of being competitive in the Champions League next season.
Atalanta defender Giorgio Scalvini is labelled as “one to watch” for Newcastle, with Howe reportedly a fan of the 21-year-old. Here are the squad numbers available to him if he joins from Atalanta.
Shirts of Allan Saint-Maximin, Anthony Gordon and Jamal Lewis in Newcastle United's dressing room.
Photo by Serena Taylor/Newcastle United via Getty Images
3
Not a typical number for a centre-back, but the lowest number available in the squad following Paul Dummett’s exit in 2024. The number is perfect for a new defender.
12
Jamal Lewis wore the No.12 during his four years on Newcastle, but it has now been confirmed that the 26-year-old is leaving the club upon the expiry of his contract in June. The number has also been worn by the likes of Dwight Gayle, Martin Dubravka and Jonjo Shelvey in the past.
15
Harvey Barnes wore the No.15 in the 2023/24 campaign before he donned the No.11 after Matt Ritchie’s departure. The shirt was also worn by Kieran Trippier for his first season on Tyneside before he took the No.2.
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16
The No.16 shirt has been available since Jeff Hendrick was loaned out from Newcastle in 2022, but nobody has taken it since. A number typically used for a substitute, Howe may look to give Scalvini another number.
27
With Newcastle’s squad loaded with players, there are not many other low numbers available. Fans usually recognise the No.27 shirt as the one Steven Taylor wore during his time with the club, but Scalvini now has the opportunity to make it his own if he joins.
34
Another number under 40, the No.34 has previously been worn by the likes of Gayle, Jack Colback and Sammy Ameobi.
42
The most likely number for Scalvini, the No.42 is available for new signings this summer. Many will see this is a random number to choose, but Scalvini actually wears this number at Atalanta. It was the number he was assigned when he made his first appearance for the Serie A side, and has kept it since. The availability of the No.42 could help Newcastle strike a deal with the 21-year-old this summer.