Newcastle United have reportedly been handed a huge boost in their pursuit of Colombian hitman Duvan Zapata, with Atalanta open to a loan-to-buy deal.
According to Sunday Mirror, as relayed by HITC, Newcastle United are stepping up their pursuit of Atalanta striker Duvan Zapata.
The 30-year-old is said to be keen on a move to St. James’ Park and has already agreed personal terms with the Tyneside club. The Magpies are looking to bring in the Colombian striker on a six-month loan deal with a view to making his stay permanent next summer.
Earlier this month, the North East giants tabled a bid for the 30-year-old but faced rejection, with Atalanta valuing their prized asset at £34 million and were reportedly unwilling to do business. However, as per the Sunday Mirror, the Serie A outfit are now open to loaning Zapata out for around £8 million loan fee with a permanent option.
This news comes as a massive boost for Newcastle, who are trying to sign another striker despite adding Chris Wood from Burnley earlier this month. With Callum Wilson sidelined for an extended period through a calf injury, Dwight Gayle being inconsistent and Joelinton transformed into a midfielder, Wood is the only decent option available at Eddie Howe’s disposal.
While the New Zealand international adds a lot to the side with his aerial dominance and hold-up play, he is not renowned for being prolific. This has put all the scoring workload on Allan Saint-Maximin, who is also Newcastle’s chief creator.
Zapata would add the much-needed firepower and killer instincts to Newcastle’s attacking contingent. He has consistently been one of the top scorers in Serie A ever since his arrival in 2013. Formerly of Napoli and Sampdoria, the Colombian has scored 78 goals in 152 appearances so far for Atalanta.
The Colombian international is having another exceptional campaign this term, contributing with 12 goals and seven assists across Serie A and the Champions League, being a focal point of Gian Piero Gasperini’s side. Standing at 6ft 2in, he can be a nightmare for defenders and boasts an interesting mix of speed, strength, dribbling and finishing. His distinctive qualities mean Zapata could also form a solid attacking partnership with Wood or Wilson at St. James’ Park.
This move seems to be an excellent piece of business for all parties involved. Atalanta, for their part, would be netting a good value for a player in the final 18 months of his contract and in his thirties. Zapata would get to make a huge move to the Premier League after proving himself in Italy.
Newcastle, meanwhile, will be committing huge money for a player with little to no resale value, but it will be worth it if his goals secure their Premier League status. Whether the Magpies can get the deal over the line for the 30-year-old Colombian sensation remains to be seen.
