Newcastle United have been linked with a move for Atalanta defender Giorgio Scalvini.
Atalanta are not interested in selling Giorgio Scalvini this summer amid reported Newcastle United interest.
Toon chiefs are understood to be targeting a centre-back as the long-term successor to Fabian Schar and Dan Burn. Both defenders are in the twilight of their careers, with Sven Botman also suffering recent injury struggles.
A failed pursuit for Marc Guehi 12 months ago saw Newcastle keep their powder dry given the tight PSR situation, Now the shackles have been loosened, the Magpies are known to be targeting defensive reinforcements.
Newcastle are locked in negotiations for Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford but a centre-back is wanted to provide Champions League depth. The Times reported yesterday that the Magpies have made Scalvini their top target.
The 21-year-old played just eight games last season as he recovered from an ACL injury. A further shoulder setback also derailed Scalvini’s season to raise concerns about his long-term fitness.
Newcastle famously gambled two years ago to sign Tino Livramento just two games into his return from an ACL tear. That move paid dividends, with Eddie Howe developing the right-back into an England international.
However, NewcastleWorld reported a fortnight ago that Atalanta have no intention to sell Scalvini. The Italian is viewed as the “crown jewel” of their academy setup and is not for sale.
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With a full pre-season under his belt, he is expected to play a key role under new manager Ivan Juric. An Atalanta source is adamant the club are not open for negotiations and are transparent regarding outgoings.
Rasmus Hojlund and Teun Koopmeiners are two players who have moved on in recent seasons. The likes of Ederson and Ademola Lookman are also linked with Premier League moves.
It is understood a deal for Scalvini remains unlikely - especially for the reported £35million price tag. Alternative targets for Newcastle include Marseille star Leonardo Balerdi, as reported by the Daily Mail.
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