After a slow start to the ongoing transfer window, Newcastle recently got a breakthrough as they have successfully agreed on a deal to bring in Anthony Elanga. The club are also close to a deal for Burnley keeper James Trafford. And it’s just the start of what could be a busy few weeks for the Magpies. They still have a number of positions that will need reinforcements ahead of next season, especially the centre-back position.
Newcastle have been trying to sign a reliable centre-back for quite some time now. The club have already been linked with a number of potential candidates for the role, although none of them have materialised as of now. However, one name who is understood to be a top target for the Magpies is back in the news.
A recent report has revealed the price tag of Atalanta’s young defender Giorgio Scalvini, who has been on the Magpies‘ radar. According to iPAPER, Scalvini is flattered by the interest from Newcastle United, but Atalanta are looking for an offer in excess of £50 million to even begin negotiations for the youngster.
Newcastle will need to pay in excess of £50 million if they wish to sign Giorgio Scalvini
There’s little doubt that Scalvini is a highly talented youngster, and could go on to become one of the best players in the world. However, Newcastle will have to be wary if they pursue this deal, as the 21-year-old is known to be injury-prone. Last season as well, he was sidelined for a prolonged period and appeared in just eight matches overall. On top of that, a sum of £50 million could also prove to be too steep for an unproven player.
That said, Newcastle will need to find themselves a new centre-back, and as we go deeper into the transfer window, the options are diminishing quickly, as multiple clubs are competing for the same players. In Scalvini’s case as well, Newcastle could face a similar situation, with Manchester United already in the race to sign him, and there’s no saying that others won’t follow suit. So, Newcastle will have to make a decision quickly if they want to bring in Scalvini or pursue another candidate.