Newcastle eyeing Italy U21 international who made first-team breakthrough in Serie A last season

Newcastle United's progress in the transfer window has been a lot slower than anybody anticipated after such a rapid start acquiring Lloyd Kelly.

We had expected that things would kick up a gear or two following the three-day meeting at Alnwick Castle, but over a week later and there's still no signs of any movement.

This morning saw the restart of things regarding Malick Thiaw after that link had gone cold, and with Milan's willingness to sell in order to beef up their funds for the purchases they want to make, that could pick up pace rather quickly.

However, there are other positions that need addressing and things have been extremely quiet for over a week now, but today has seen a new(ish) name enter the frame in a position we aren't sure we really need strengthening just yet.

Michael Kayode burst onto the scene last season

Joel Bland pointed out back in May that Newcastle were keeping an eye on Fiorentina right-back Michael Kayode, and now he believes, writing for NUFCBlog that Newcastle's interest could now be acted upon.

Bland claims that he was seen by the club as a potential to fill up the squad when Kieran Trippier's contract expires next year, but now with the England international 'increasingly certain' to depart this summer, the club could step up their interest in Kayode.

The 20-year-old U21 Italy international had his breakout season for Fiorentina last year making 37 appearances for the club.

We aren't too convinced about this one yet

A right back, even if Trippier departs, still doesn't feel like as much of a priority as other positions given that we have Tino Livramento ready to step up to first-team duties with Swedish international Emil Krafth to back him up.

We still also have Harrison Ashby who we fought hard to bring in from West Ham who spent last season out on loan at Swansea.

If a deal can be done for Kayode that won't break the bank, then I can see how picking up a young player with plenty of potential could make sense, but Tino and Harrison aren't exactly aged. It's a strange on, but we'll see how it plays out.