Newcastle United could miss out on two top centre-back targets thanks to one deal - journalist
Newcastle United are on the hunt for a new right-sided centre back as well as a goalkeeper and a centre forward after finally signing Anthony Elanga.
Reports have suggested that Newcastle's next priority is to find a striker to support Alexander Isak, which makes sense given the departure of Callum Wilson.
However, a right-sided centre-back has been a priority for a couple of years now, and Newcastle are determined to get things right, requiring a player with quality but equally importantly, youth, as the centre-back options Eddie Howe has right now are all over 30, except for Sven Botman.
The Magpies have two Serie A players in their sights this summer; however, a new twist has meant that Newcastle could miss out on both players.
Giorgio Scalvini and Malick Thiaw could be about to swap clubs
Atalanta's Giorgio Scalvini is reportedly top of Newcastle's wishlist, while they also retain an interest in Malick Thiaw from AC Milan, whose move to Como fell apart last week.
Journalist Graeme Bailey has now told TBR Football that Newcastle's plans could be in tatters as AC Milan have made an approach for Scalvini and are set to offer Thiaw as part of the deal.
That would take both targets off the board for Eddie Howe if it were to go through.
Graeme Bailey says Newcastle have other options
Fortunately, Bailey did mention another target, so all will not be lost.
“Newcastle are stepping up their efforts for their new defender. A right-sided centre-back is a big thing for them. They’re doing work on those.
“Malick Thiaw is an interesting one as the Milan defender almost joined them last summer. He’s been keeping Como at arm’s length, and he fits into what Newcastle want.
“But he has now been offered to Atalanta which could see them land Scalvini and stopping Newcastle on two fronts – a fascinating situation.
“Eddie Howe also likes Leonardo Balerdi who plays for Marseille, there are options for them but they want one in before the season starts.”
We'll have to see if Malick Thiaw is the answer for Atalanta if they're going to lose Scalvini. The move makes sense, getting some money in and replacing like-for-like without having to go looking. It could be a big problem for Newcastle.
