Report: Newcastle identify an alternative player of £25m amid the recent set back in signing of Giorgio Scalvini
Newcastle United’s summer transfer window has been far from smooth sailing, with manager Eddie Howe facing numerous setbacks in pursuit of top-tier reinforcements. The Magpies have seen multiple primary targets either opt for rival clubs or decline advances altogether—Bryan Mbeumo’s ongoing link with Manchester United is a prime illustration of that growing frustration.
In response, Newcastle have shifted their focus and begun pursuing alternative signings. On the attacking front, they’ve moved swiftly to agree a £55 million deal for Nottingham Forest’s Anthony Elanga, a former Manchester United academy graduate, as a potential substitute for Mbeumo. However, attacking reinforcements aren’t their only concern.
At the defensive end, the club has long admired Atalanta’s Giorgio Scalvini, a towering and tactically astute centre-back. But with his fitness issues and a potentially complicated negotiation with the Italian club, Newcastle appear to be broadening their options—and they may have now identified the perfect fallback.
Disasi Emerges as Serious Option
According to reports from RMC Sport, Newcastle have initiated contact with Chelsea over the availability of French centre-back Axel Disasi. The 27-year-old is reportedly on the radar of several clubs, but the Magpies are among the most proactive in expressing their interest. Chelsea are said to be open to a sale, with a £25 million price tag placed on the defender.
Disasi, a former AS Monaco standout, has found himself surplus to requirements at Stamford Bridge, particularly under new manager Enzo Maresca. After struggling to cement a regular starting role, he was loaned to Aston Villa for the latter half of last season.
Despite limited minutes, Disasi managed to impress during his stint at Villa Park. He made 27 appearances in all competitions across both clubs during the 2024/25 season but only logged 852 minutes in the Premier League. Nonetheless, Aston Villa manager Unai Emery praised him in March, describing the Frenchman as a player “growing in confidence” and highlighted his standout performance in a crucial away match at Brentford, where he earned Player of the Match honors.
With Chelsea now reshaping their squad and Newcastle keen to bolster their defensive depth, Disasi could be a realistic and valuable signing for the Magpies.
A Practical and Proven Alternative
Scalvini, while still regarded as a high-upside talent, has raised fitness concerns. The 21-year-old endured a difficult 2024/25 season, missing the majority of the campaign due to injury. He was initially sidelined with a severe ACL injury, only to suffer a shoulder setback upon his return. As a result, he managed just eight appearances across all competitions last season.
Contrast that with his excellent 2023/24 campaign, where he made 44 appearances and played a key role in Atalanta’s Europa League triumph. His composure, aerial ability, and poise in possession stood out, particularly during the 3-0 final win over Bayer Leverkusen—a match in which he helped secure a clean sheet against a side that had previously gone unbeaten all season.
Still, Newcastle must weigh Scalvini’s injury record against his long-term potential. Disasi, by comparison, offers greater experience and durability at this stage of his career. A member of France’s 2022 World Cup squad, he is not only physically imposing but also tactically intelligent, able to progress the ball from deep and read the game effectively.
Numbers Behind the Decision
According to data from FBref, Disasi posted impressive metrics during the 2023/24 season—averaging 3.9 progressive passes and 3.55 clearances per 90 minutes. Scalvini edged him slightly in progressive passing at 4.1 per 90 but trailed in defensive metrics like clearances. Furthermore, Disasi’s ball recoveries, positional awareness, and ability to slot into various backline formations make him a flexible option for Eddie Howe’s defensive setup.
The Verdict: A Deal Worth Making
Considering Newcastle’s need to strengthen defensively without overspending, Axel Disasi could represent excellent value at £25 million. His Premier League experience, international pedigree, and proven ability to perform under pressure make him a logical and low-risk addition. In contrast to Scalvini’s ongoing battle for fitness, Disasi is available, attainable, and ready to contribute from day one.
If Newcastle are looking for a “dream alternative” to Scalvini—someone who can deliver consistency, defensive solidity, and leadership at the back—then Disasi might just be the ideal solution this summer.