07-14 10:26Views 3125
Newcastle United are keen on signing Atalanta defender Giorgio Scalvini this summer, viewing him as a promising talent despite his limited appearances—only eight Serie A games last season—due to injury setbacks. However, the club faces a significant hurdle with Atalanta demanding around £52 million for the 21-year-old, a price deemed steep given his two major injuries in the past year.
Scalvini is reportedly open to a move to Newcastle after learning of their interest, influenced by positive feedback from current Newcastle player Sandro Tonali. Despite this, Atalanta's manager Ivan Juric intends to build his team around Scalvini, who is now recovering to full fitness after a shoulder injury, complicating Newcastle's hopes for a bargain deal.
Due to the high cost of Scalvini, Newcastle are exploring alternative targets, including Chelsea defender Axel Disasi. Disasi, who joined Chelsea from Monaco for £39 million in 2024, struggled in England and quickly lost his starting spot under manager Enzo Maresca, culminating in a loan spell at Aston Villa in the latter part of the 2024/25 season.
Chelsea have informed Disasi he can leave this summer, with Newcastle showing interest. Although Villarreal are also pursuing the 27-year-old Frenchman, Disasi prefers staying in the Premier League, giving Newcastle an advantage in potential negotiations. His transfer fee is estimated at around £26 million, making him a far cheaper option compared to Scalvini.
Despite Disasi's lower price, Newcastle manager Eddie Howe favors pursuing Scalvini over the French defender. Howe had previously advised against signing Disasi in 2024, expressing strong opposition to bringing him to the club, which underscores his current reluctance.
This summer's search follows Newcastle's failed attempts to sign Crystal Palace's Marc Guehi last year, where multiple bids were rejected. With Guehi not on their radar now, the club is assessing other options, but Howe's preference for Scalvini remains clear despite the financial challenges.
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