Newcastle now at risk of missing out on two top transfer targets due to ‘fascinating’ turn of events
TBR Football can exclusively confirm that Newcastle United are now at risk of missing out on two top targets due to a “fascinating” turn of events.
The Magpies have just completed the signing of Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest, their second new arrival of the summer.
Now, Newcastle have set their sights on bringing in a new right-sided centre-back as they look to freshen up their back line.
First-choice defenders Dan Burn and Fabian Schar are both well into their thirties, along with Jamaal Lascelles.
Two European centre-backs are firmly in Newcastle’s sights – but they now risk losing out on both players.
Giorgio Scalvini and Malick Thiaw could trade places
TBR Football chief correspondent Graeme Bailey understands that Newcastle’s task of landing one of their top defensive targets, Giorgio Scalvini, has become more complicated.
It is understood that AC Milan have now thrown their hat into the ring for Scalvini and, interestingly, they have offered Malick Thiaw to Atalanta as part of the deal.
The Germany international is also one of Newcastle’s top targets this summer.
Thiaw has rejected a move to Como already this summer and Newcastle remain keen, as they are in Scalvini.
We can reveal that whilst Atalanta are not keen to sell Scalvini, interest is growing and it is believed the player is considering his options.
Scalvini has also been watched by Chelsea, Tottenham and Liverpool in the last 12 months.
“Newcastle are stepping up their efforts for their new defender,” Bailey exclusively told TBR Football. “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.”
Newcastle set to make push for goalkeeper
Eddie Howe is also in pursuit of a new goalkeeper, and Burnley’s James Trafford remains firmly in Newcastle’s sights.
TBR Football sources say Newcastle are set for a new round of talks next week as they aim to sign the Clarets stopper.
Burnley are standing firm on their valuation of Trafford, which is north of £30million, but Newcastle feel they’re getting close.
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