Newcastle United’s search for a Sven Botman replacement could take them to Italy, with Chelsea and Manchester United target Giorgio Scalvini of Atalanta being eyed up.
According to football insider Dean Jones, who has spoken to GIVEMESPORT about Newcastle United’s plans to sign a centre-back following the injury to Sven Botman. And Giorgio Scalvini has emerged as a target for the Magpies.
The Magpies were rocked after tests showed the knee injury Botman sustained during the FA Cup defeat against Manchester City was worse than previously thought. Scans showed that the anterior cruciate ligament is torn, and a formal statement from the Premier League club confirmed that the Dutch defender is expected to return in six to nine months.
That inevitably means they need reinforcements in defence for the start of next season and are likely to turn towards Serie A for new signings if Jones’ insider information is to be believed. The 20-year-old Italian centre-back is considered one of the most exciting emerging talents in Serie A, and he is continued impressing this season.
Despite his age, Scalvini has a lot of experience. He has played nearly 100 times for Atalanta, and he is also a full-time Italian international. He won his eighth cap on Thursday night, as Italy beat Venezuela 2-1 in a friendly.
Scalvini’s height is also a big advantage, perhaps providing Newcastle United with more set-piece protection in the absence of Dan Burn. He stands 6ft 4in tall, making him significantly bigger in frame than Fabian Schar.
The fact that he is so young is a very appealing prospect, as he could end up being a starting centre-back for the next decade. Back in January, the 20-year-old signed a new contract with Atalanta, lasting to June 2028.
Newcastle United not alone in Giorgio Scalvini race
A long list of top clubs have had their sights set on Scalvini for a long time now, notably Newcastle United’s Premier League rivals Manchester United and Chelsea. The Red Devils have sent scouts to follow the 20-year-old defender on a number of occasions and have been left impressed.
In fact, Manchester United were keen to land Scalvini late in the January window. But Atalanta’s £52 million valuation was a bridge too far for FFP-strangled Red Devils. Chelsea are also keen on the defender. But they know they need to sell players in the summer transfer window to acquire more than just a striker, which is a priority at the moment.
