Newcastle United have had to regroup quickly after suffering one of the biggest setbacks of their summer.
Eddie Howe looked set to land Freiburg midfielder Johan Manzambi after agreeing a deal with the Bundesliga club, only for Aston Villa to hijack the move at the final hurdle by matching the transfer fee and convincing the Switzerland international to head to Villa Park instead.
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Losing out on such a key target has forced Newcastle to reassess their priorities, with strengthening the right side of defence now becoming another major focus before the new season.
That search has led the Magpies towards Serie A.
Newcastle hold discussions for Fiorentina right-back Dodo
According to Viola News, relayed by Sport Witness, Newcastle have made contact over a potential deal for Fiorentina right-back Dodo.
Dodo-Fiorentina-Wolves
Nottingham Forest are also credited with interest, but Newcastle are understood to be among the clubs making the strongest early moves as they explore the conditions of a possible transfer.
Inter Milan, Juventus and Napoli held talks as well. However, all three of the Serie A heavyweights have gone nowhere with a deal so far.
Why are Newcastle targeting Dodo?
The Brazilian has quietly developed into one of Italy's most consistent full-backs.
Since joining Fiorentina from Shakhtar Donetsk in 2022, Dodo has become a vital figure thanks to his relentless energy, attacking intent and reliability at both ends of the pitch.
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Comfortable operating as either a traditional full-back or wing-back, the 27-year-old has earned a reputation for covering huge distances while remaining composed in possession.
Those qualities have not gone unnoticed by people who know him well.
Former coach Vítor Severino has previously described Dodô as "super fast" and highlighted his explosive acceleration as one of his greatest strengths.
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Severino has also praised the defender's work ethic and willingness to improve, suggesting his athletic ability is matched by an impressive mentality away from the spotlight.
That profile appears to fit exactly what Howe demands.
Negotiations, however, may not be straightforward.
Fiorentina regard him as an important member of their squad, meaning Newcastle are unlikely to secure a bargain. With several clubs monitoring his situation, competition could also increase if formal bids begin arriving later in the window.
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After missing out on Manzambi, Newcastle can ill afford yet another disappointment, especially amid the Bruno Guimaraes saga and having sold both Anthony Gordon and Sandro Tonali.
The club remain determined to strengthen despite several frustrating twists during the transfer window, and Dodo represents the type of proven performer capable of improving the starting eleven immediately.
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The Brazilian will cost far more than the Gunners expected.