Exclusive: Newcastle now at risk of missing out on two top transfer targets due to ‘fascinating’ turn of events

Newcastle United’s transfer window, which began with the much-anticipated arrival of Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest, has taken an unexpected twist.

While the club has made notable progress in strengthening its attacking options, they now find themselves facing significant challenges in pursuit of two key defensive targets.

With Eddie Howe looking to inject fresh energy into an aging backline, the urgency to secure a new right-sided centre-back has intensified. However, recent developments may force Newcastle to rethink their strategy as they risk missing out on both of their preferred options.

The need for defensive reinforcements has become increasingly apparent. Fabian Schär, Dan Burn, and Jamaal Lascelles have all played important roles for the club, but with each of them entering the twilight of their careers, Newcastle must begin succession planning.

Giorgio Scalvini and Malick Thiaw have emerged as leading candidates to fill this critical position, but circumstances surrounding both players have suddenly become more complex.

Newcastle had been monitoring Scalvini closely, with the 20-year-old Atalanta defender viewed as a long-term solution to shore up the club’s defense.

Scalvini has impressed in Serie A with his composure, technical ability, and maturity beyond his years, attracting attention from several Premier League clubs, including Chelsea, Tottenham, and Liverpool.

However, the Magpies now face stiff competition from AC Milan, who have recently entered the race with an unexpected tactic—offering Malick Thiaw to Atalanta in a potential part-exchange deal for Scalvini.

This development places Newcastle in a precarious position, as Thiaw is also a player they have pursued with genuine intent.

The German international came close to joining Newcastle last summer and remains high on their list of priorities this window. Although Thiaw turned down a move to Como earlier this summer, Milan’s decision to use him as leverage in their pursuit of Scalvini could effectively block Newcastle from signing either defender.

Sources suggest Atalanta are hesitant to let go of Scalvini, but with mounting interest and the player now assessing his options, a transfer may become inevitable.

If Milan succeed in convincing Atalanta to accept Thiaw as part of the deal, Newcastle could find themselves missing out on both of their primary centre-back targets in a single transaction.

It’s a twist that underscores the high-stakes nature of modern transfer dealings, where clubs must act swiftly and decisively to avoid being outmaneuvered.

While Scalvini and Thiaw represent top-tier targets, Eddie Howe is reportedly keeping an eye on alternative options. Leonardo Balerdi, who currently plies his trade at Marseille, has caught the eye of Newcastle’s scouting department.

The Argentine defender possesses strong aerial ability, composure on the ball, and fits the profile of a modern centre-back capable of operating in Howe’s system. Though not the initial frontrunner, Balerdi could become a realistic fallback option should the club’s primary pursuits fall through.

In parallel with the defensive search, Newcastle also continue to work on reinforcing their goalkeeping department. The club’s pursuit of Burnley’s James Trafford remains active, with a new round of negotiations expected soon.

Burnley have placed a valuation exceeding £30 million on the England U21 goalkeeper, but Newcastle believe progress is being made. Trafford’s potential arrival would add vital competition and depth between the sticks, something Howe views as essential with a long and demanding season ahead, including European fixtures.

These overlapping developments reflect the broader strategic ambition at St James’ Park—to build a deep, competitive squad capable of contending on multiple fronts.

With time still left in the transfer window, the pressure is on Newcastle’s recruitment team to secure deals that align with both the club’s financial parameters and Howe’s tactical blueprint.

Missing out on Scalvini and Thiaw would be a blow, but not a fatal one. The club has shown a willingness to explore creative solutions and alternative targets in recent windows.

As the window progresses, adaptability and timing may prove just as important as ambition in ensuring Newcastle do not leave themselves short in key areas.