Newcastle United scouted Giorgio Scalvini last winter and Italian reports claim they have firmed up their interest.
Italian media outlets are seething and labelling Giorgio Scalvini as “untouchable” after Newcastle United’s interest became concrete.
It is understood that the Magpies scouted the centre-back last season following his return from an ACL injury. Scalvini only made a handful of appearances once he returned from the setback before suffering a three-month shoulder setback.
That has triggered long-term concern among Newcastle fans but Toon chiefs played this trick before with Tino Livramento. Just two games into his ACL comeback, Newcastle forked out £35million for one of England’s most highly-rated defensive prospects.
Scalvini has been valued as high as £60million previously but his stock has fallen due to injury. But with eight caps despite his tender age, the 21-year-old remains one of Italy’s golden boys.
Speculation linking him with Newcastle has ramped up in recent days and, despite talk predominantly coming from Italy, media outlets have been incensed. TuttoAtalanta labelled Scalvini as “untouchable” while claiming La Dea have insisted on a not-for-sale stance.
A firm position did little to stop Newcastle from enquiring about the talented centre-back. Conflicting reports suggest Atalanta would be prepared to do business for £40million - a figure that suits United’s price bracket.
PSR restrictions have loosened around St James’ Park but the club still do not wish to be held to ransom. Previous moves to sign Premier League talent like Marc Guehi have resulted in unreasonable price demands - but shopping abroad provides fairer value for money.
Fabian Schar successor
For a fully-fledged Italian international with time on his side, similarly to Livramento, this could be a risk worth taking. A calming presence in the back four, Scalvini has attributes akin to Fabian Schar.
With the Swiss sensation turning 34 in December, the Atalanta ace fits the bill to become his natural long-term successor. Signing a younger centre-back would also place Newcastle in good stead for the future given Sven Botman is also only 25.
Taste of own medicine
There is a shade of irony to Italian outlets being furious at Newcastle wanting Scalvini. The Magpies have dealt with perennial reports linking Sandro Tonali to a Serie A club since the moment he left in July 2023.
Reputable Italian journalist Matteo Moretto broke the story but, as mentioned, Newcastle watched the youngster last winter. Scalvini and Tonali hail from the same region to give the Magpies a possible negotiating weapon.
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Giorgio Scalvini on Premier League move
Speaking two years ago, Atalanta sensation Scalvini hinted at being open to a Premier League move. He said: “I honestly don’t know, I just know that I have to do my best for Atalanta, right now that’s my only priority.
“I would be very happy with either (staying or leaving), but I don’t really know exactly what my future holds. All I know is that if I work hard now I can build that future, and so my focus remains here (at Atalanta).”
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