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Reports: Newcastle United and Leicester to battle for Torino defender

By Roy Emanuel

TURIN, ITALY - APRIL 18: Lorenzo De Silvestri of Torino FC celebrates a goal during the Serie A match between Torino FC and AC Milan at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on April 18, 2018 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
TURIN, ITALY - APRIL 18: Lorenzo De Silvestri of Torino FC celebrates a goal during the Serie A match between Torino FC and AC Milan at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on April 18, 2018 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images) /
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Newcastle United and Leicester are poised to make a move for the same player.

Newcastle United and manager Rafa Benitez will want to use the summer transfer period as a time to add talent, and there are needs throughout the line-up that will require reinforcements. The back-line is a priority, and the Magpies may be set to sign a defender from Serie A.

Reports this week have linked Torino’s Lorenzo De Silvestri with a potential move to Tyneside, but United will not be the only club involved. Leicester City were also said to be interested, and the two sides will both try to seal a deal for the powerful full-back.

De Silvestri played for Lazio, Fiorentina and Sampdoria before signing with Torino in 2016. He has represented Italy’s national team at various levels, including the senior side. The reports first appeared through Tutto Mercato.

Normally a right-back, the 30-year-old can play in any defensive position, likely the key attribute that has attracted attention from Benitez.

Javier Manquillo had his bright moments during the 2017-18 term, but did not have the desired impact in terms of versatility that the Spanish tactician was hoping for.

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With Massadio Haidara and Jesús Gámez on their way out at St. James’ Park, De Silvestri’s arrival could be coming at just the right time for the Toon.

Difficult negotiations

Despite both Newcastle and Leicester scouting the defender, it is believed that Torino are keen to keep De Silvestri for next season.

While of course a significant offer could change their decision, it may prove too difficult to convince the Italian club to sell.

The Foxes will provide competition in this regard, and transfer funds for the Magpies have yet to be completely confirmed for the summer.

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Newcastle United and Rafa Benitez want to improve upon their top-half finish in 2017-18. Versatile players can be vital to success, and Lorenzo De Silvestri fits that description.