Reports suggest Newcastle United 'most likely' to sign Italy international this summer on free transfer
Newcastle United have the future of their own Italy international to sort out this summer, but reports suggest that if Sandro Tonali stays, he may be joined by an international teammate.
After a January transfer window in which Newcastle made no additions despite being in desperate need, all eyes will be on Ross Wilson in the summer to see how the new sporting director will make amends.
The form this season has been so up and down, and we're two-thirds of the way through the season, and Eddie Howe still doesn't seem to know what his best XI is. We expect a lot of changes in the summer, both in and out.
Italian media are reporting that the Magpies have their first signing already lined up, with a free transfer already in the works.
Italian media say Lorenzo Pellegrini has given the green light to move to Newcastle United
Italian outlet Calciomercato believes that Lorenzo Pellegrini has 'given his approval' to complete a free transfer from AS Roma to Newcastle United in the summer.
Talks over a new deal with Roma have stalled, and Pellegrini is said to be keen on a switch to the Premier League, with Newcastle the 'most likely' destination.
The 29-year-old has had an impressive career at Roma, having made 337 appearances over his nine-year tenure, scoring 59 goals along the way and racking up 36 international caps.
We can't see Ross Wilson chasing Pellegrini
We're not sure whether we're buying this one, though. Italian media love using Newcastle United as the boogeyman who is coming for all of Serie A's players to get their clubs to offer new contracts to players.
More tellingly, though, is Pellegrini's age. The 29-year-old doesn't fit the remit of lowering the average age of the squad that Ross Wilson spoke about on his arrival.
Granted, it's a free transfer, but his wages won't be cheap, and we're just not sure Wilson will be giving the green light to sign anyone over 26 unless things become very desperate.
