Fabrizio Romano: Newcastle approach Atalanta over deal to sign Giorgio Scalvini

Newcastle United Continue Pursuit of Atalanta Star Giorgio Scalvini as Summer Transfer Plans Intensify

Newcastle United’s interest in highly-rated Atalanta defender Giorgio Scalvini is gaining serious momentum, with fresh developments emerging regarding their push to bring the Italian international to St. James’ Park.

Just a day after The Times revealed that Scalvini is one of Eddie Howe’s top defensive targets this summer, The Northern Echo followed up by reporting that talks with Atalanta are scheduled for this weekend, as the Magpies look to move swiftly to secure a deal. Now, trusted transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has added his voice to the story, providing further insight into Newcastle’s transfer ambitions.

Taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Romano confirmed that Scalvini is indeed a priority target for the Tyneside club. The 21-year-old is reportedly among the “main names” on Newcastle’s summer transfer shortlist, alongside Nottingham Forest winger Anthony Elanga and Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford. This further underlines the club’s intention to strengthen in key areas ahead of the new Premier League season.

Romano went on to report that Newcastle have already made initial contact with Atalanta regarding the young centre-back. However, he was quick to point out that completing a deal will be far from straightforward. Atalanta are not keen to lose one of their brightest defensive talents, and the Serie A side are expected to resist any advances unless a significant offer is made. Complicating matters further is the fact that Newcastle are not the only club eyeing Scalvini—other top European teams are also monitoring his situation closely, making the competition fierce.

Romano’s update read: “Giorgio Scalvini, one of the main names on Newcastle’s shortlist for this summer. Understand there are also more clubs keen on Scalvini and involved in the race—not an easy deal with Atalanta, but initial approaches took place.”

Scalvini, who has already established himself as a regular for both Atalanta and the Italian national team despite his young age, is regarded as one of the most promising defensive prospects in Europe. His composure on the ball, tactical awareness, and physical presence make him an ideal fit for Eddie Howe’s system, especially with the Magpies looking to shore up their backline ahead of a challenging domestic and European campaign.

In a previous interview conducted in 2023, the Italian defender openly expressed his admiration for the Premier League, describing it as the best football league in the world. His comments at the time hinted at a desire to test himself in England’s top flight someday.

“For me, it’s the best league there is, for the intensity,” Scalvini said. “Once in my career, I don’t even know when, I’d like to play there.”

Those words may now carry more weight as Newcastle continue to work behind the scenes in an attempt to make that dream a reality. If successful, the move would represent a major coup for the Magpies and signal their growing ambition to compete at the highest level both domestically and in Europe.

With discussions set to continue and other suitors circling, Newcastle will need to act decisively if they hope to win the race for one of Italy’s most coveted young defenders.