Newcastle United are reportedly showing strong interest in acquiring highly-rated Atalanta central defender Giorgio Scalvini.
While the 21-year-old Italian international possesses immense talent and potential, his recent injury history, including a cruciate ligament tear, could present a unique opportunity for Newcastle, echoing our successful acquisition of Tino Livramento.
Scalvini has quickly risen through the ranks, establishing himself as a key player for Atalanta and earning eight caps for the Italian national team. He was part of Atalanta’s Europa League-winning squad in 2024 and was named ‘Best Italian Player Under 21′ in 2023.
His profile as a tall (6ft 4’), young, and promising centre-back aligns with Newcastle’s long-term transfer strategy, particularly as we seek a successor for the ageing Fabian Schär.
However, Scalvini’s injury record is a significant talking point. He has endured several setbacks, most notably a cruciate ligament tear that kept him out for 170 days in the 2023/24 season, missing 17 games. He has also suffered from hamstring, shoulder, adductor, and lumbago issues, resulting in significant time on the sidelines over the past few seasons. This recent history will undoubtedly raise concerns among some Newcastle fans, especially given our own struggles with long-term injuries to key players like Sven Botman.
Despite these concerns, Newcastle’s interest in Scalvini suggests a potential “buy the dip” strategy, similar to their successful move for Tino Livramento.
Livramento, a promising right-back, suffered an ACL injury in April 2022, missing over a year of football before Newcastle secured his services from Southampton in 2023. At the time, other clubs might have been hesitant due to his prolonged absence, but Newcastle’s medical and scouting teams evidently trusted in his recovery and long-term potential. Livramento has since been a revelation for us, demonstrating our shrewdness in taking a calculated risk on a player recovering from a significant injury.
If Newcastle were to pursue Scalvini, his recent cruciate ligament injury could drive down his asking price, potentially making him a more attainable target for the club. This would allow them to acquire a player of significant talent and future value at a reduced cost, betting on our medical team to iron out his recent issues and integrate him successfully into the squad.
The key would be a thorough medical assessment and a clear plan for Scalvini’s long-term fitness. His youth is a major advantage, as it provides more time for full recovery and adaptation. The success of the Livramento transfer provides a precedent for Newcastle’s ability to navigate such situations.
In conclusion, while Giorgio Scalvini’s injury history is a legitimate concern, it also presents a potential opportunity for Newcastle United to secure a top young defender at a more favourable price.
If the club believes their medical staff can effectively manage his recovery and prevent future setbacks, a move for Scalvini could be a shrewd investment that strengthens our squad for years to come, much like the successful signing of Tino Livramento.
The coming days will be crucial in determining whether Newcastle will press ahead with a substantial offer and if Atalanta’s stance on not selling their key player can be swayed.