Newcastle have initial approach for 'remarkable' Italy defender rebuffed but are 'in the lead' for his signature

Newcastle United have recently upped their game when looking for another central defender to join the ranks and it seems that Italy is where their focus lies for now.

Having been linked to Riccardo Calafiori recently, the Magpies are now reportedly looking at Juventus and Italy defender Federico Gatti.

The 26-year-old is currently with the Italy squad at Euro 2024 where he is yet to make an appearance, while speculation over his future ramps up.

The former Frosinone man is attracting interest at home and abroad with Juventus keen to keep hold of their man who has had a 'remarkable' rise to the top according to Smarter Scout.

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Gatti is interested in a Premier League move but is happy at Juventus

Italian journalist Alfredo Pedulla has provided an update on the situation by claiming that Newcastle are 'in the lead' ahead of other Premier League sides when it comes to signing Gatti.

Pedulla claims that Gatti is interested by the Premier League, but at the same time is happy at Juventus and would prefer to stay.

Similarly, Juventus don't want to sell, but an 'indispensable' offer could persuade them to talk.

Newcastle will likely move on to other targets

Quite how much an 'indispensable' offer would be remains to be seen, but we know full well that Newcastle won't be bullied into paying over the odds for anyone.

With Pedulla claiming that Newcastle have already had an approach rebuffed, it remains to be seen whether they will return with a better offer or simply move on.

We suspect the latter as that seems to be how we are operating right now.