Newcastle United’s search for defensive reinforcements has taken them to Bergamo, where Atalanta’s towering center-back Giorgio Scalvini has captured the club’s attention.

The 21-year-old Italian international represents precisely the profile of signing that could define the Magpies’ backline for the next decade – a blend of Serie A pedigree, Champions League experience, and room for exponential growth under Eddie Howe’s tutelage.

Italian journalist Matteo Moretto’s revelation of Newcastle’s “very interested” status confirms the club’s strategic thinking.

At 6’4″, Scalvini combines aerial dominance with the technical qualities demanded of modern center-halves, having completed 87% of his passes last season while averaging 1.5 interceptions per game.

His inclusion in Atalanta’s Europa League-winning squad and eight senior Italy caps before turning 22 underscore his precocious talent.

However, negotiations promise to be complex. Atalanta’s Champions League qualification strengthens their resolve to retain Scalvini, whom they consider indispensable for their European campaign.

The Bergamo club’s reputation for tough negotiations – evidenced by their £86 million sale of Rasmus Højlund to Manchester United last summer – suggests Newcastle may need to table a bid exceeding £50 million to test their resolve.

The potential Tonali connection adds intrigue. Having shared Italy duty with Newcastle’s suspended midfielder, Scalvini could benefit from a familiar face during any transition to English football.

Their six combined appearances for the Azzurri at various levels hint at an existing understanding that might translate well to club partnerships.

Medical due diligence will understandably be rigorous. Scalvini’s ACL injury history raises legitimate concerns following Sven Botman’s recurring fitness issues, but Newcastle’s success with Tino Livramento proves their medical team can accurately assess recovery trajectories.

The parallels are striking – both young defenders suffered serious knee injuries before Newcastle identified their long-term potential outweighed the short-term risk.

Financially, Scalvini represents both opportunity and gamble. His current market value (estimated at £35-40 million) could double with two strong Premier League seasons, making him a savvy investment.

Yet with Fabian Schär turning 33 this year and Botman’s injury woes, Newcastle cannot afford another center-back whose availability becomes inconsistent.

The coming weeks will reveal whether Newcastle’s interest crystallizes into a formal offer. Scalvini’s potential arrival would signal a philosophical shift in recruitment – prioritizing elite young talent over established names, trusting Howe’s coaching to unlock world-class potential.

In a summer where Marc Guehi’s £70 million price tag has given Newcastle pause, the Italian youngster offers comparable upside at potentially better value.

As the Magpies prepare for Champions League football, Scalvini embodies the type of ambitious signing that could help bridge the gap between domestic competitiveness and European relevance.

His acquisition would complete a defensive unit blending youth (Livramento, Botman) with experience (Trippier, Schär) – the foundation upon which sustained success can be built.

The question isn’t whether Scalvini has the talent to thrive at St James’ Park, but whether Newcastle can persuade Atalanta to part with their crown jewel.