Newcastle can sign Giorgio Scalvini ahead of Man Utd this month – on one condition
Newcastle United have intensified their efforts to secure the signing of Atalanta centre-back Giorgio Scalvini, with growing interest in the young Italian who has emerged as one of their priority defensive targets for the summer.
After previously shifting their focus away from Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi due to failed negotiations, the Magpies have identified Scalvini as the defender they believe can bolster their backline and help them prepare for another campaign of high-level football both domestically and in Europe.
At just 21 years of age, Scalvini already boasts a highly respectable résumé. He has accumulated over 100 senior appearances, earned caps for the Italian national team, gained Champions League experience, and even picked up a Europa League winner’s medal.
Despite suffering a setback through an anterior cruciate ligament injury in May last year and a follow-up shoulder problem, the towering defender remains one of Italy’s most promising young players.
Although these injury issues limited him to just eight appearances last season, Newcastle’s interest has remained firm, and sources now suggest that Atalanta’s previously unwavering stance on keeping the player has started to soften.
The Serie A club initially signaled an unwillingness to consider offers, but Newcastle, fresh from securing Anthony Elanga in a £55 million deal, believe they could convince Atalanta to negotiate should a significant bid be presented.
The Italian club is believed to value Scalvini at a minimum of €50 million (approximately £43.2 million), and journalist Matteo Moretto has confirmed this on Fabrizio Romano’s platform.
Moretto stated that although no formal offer has been submitted yet, Newcastle’s interest is legitimate and persistent. He also pointed out that while Atalanta may describe Scalvini as “unsellable,” such terms are often used strategically, and a sizeable bid could very well test their resolve.
Scalvini’s potential transfer fee may seem steep, particularly when factoring in his recent injuries, but Newcastle know precisely what it would take to have their offer taken seriously.
The club is carefully considering whether the investment aligns with their long-term defensive plans, especially as they have endured significant injury problems at the back over the last two seasons.
With both Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles sidelined with ACL injuries for extended spells, any incoming defender must not only bring quality but also the reliability needed to navigate the rigors of a full Premier League and European calendar.
Despite concerns surrounding Scalvini’s fitness history, his technical ability, composure under pressure, and experience far beyond his years make him a tempting option.
The centre-back’s reaction to Newcastle’s reported interest has also been promising. Reports indicate that he feels flattered by the Magpies’ pursuit, and while Manchester United have also shown interest, Newcastle might hold a competitive edge.
With Champions League football on offer this season, they can offer a platform that many clubs, including United, currently cannot.
Ultimately, the decision lies with both Newcastle and Atalanta. The Magpies must decide if they’re willing to invest heavily in a player whose trajectory suggests world-class potential, while Atalanta must consider whether keeping Scalvini outweighs the financial benefit of a significant sale.
One thing is certain—if Newcastle make their move with a concrete offer north of £43 million, they’ll have a real chance of landing one of Europe’s most highly rated young defenders.