“Not Scalvini”: Newcastle in talks to sign versatile defender after contacting agent and club

Newcastle United appear to be intensifying their search for defensive reinforcements this summer, with fresh reports out of Italy suggesting a promising move may be underway.

The club has made no secret of its strategy to explore talent beyond the Premier League bubble, especially as inflated domestic prices continue to restrict value in the transfer market.

That approach seems to be gaining traction again, particularly following the club’s pursuit of Hugo Ekitike and previous success in Serie A with the signing of Sandro Tonali. Now, a new name has emerged from the Italian top flight — Nicolò Savona of Juventus.

Sky Italy’s Gianluca Di Marzio has revealed that Newcastle have opened preliminary talks with both Juventus and the player’s representatives, aiming to bring the 22-year-old defender to St James’ Park.

While negotiations are still in the early stages, this development points to a proactive approach by the Magpies, who seem keen to avoid being left behind in a summer where squad strengthening is absolutely essential.

Juventus, reportedly looking to raise funds for their own transfer ambitions, may be open to letting Savona go — especially if the price is right and the deal can help them balance the books.

Savona, who stands at an imposing 6 feet 4 inches, made 28 Serie A appearances for the Bianconeri last season.

Though he spent most of his time deployed as a right-back, those close to the club believe his natural position lies in the right-sided centre-back role. That kind of tactical flexibility is something Eddie Howe greatly values.

The Newcastle boss has made it a habit to seek out players who can adapt across multiple roles — and Savona fits that mold perfectly.

His ability to slot in at centre-back, as well as cover both full-back positions, increases his value in a squad that has struggled with depth across its backline.

With Kieran Trippier nearing the end of his career and turning 35 in just a couple of months, Newcastle need to plan ahead — and having someone like Savona who can offer both immediate utility and long-term promise makes this a compelling prospect.

Trippier’s influence remains crucial, but the club understands the importance of grooming a successor who can learn, adapt, and eventually take on more responsibility.

Beyond the right side, Newcastle’s issues at left-back are also becoming more pressing. With Lewis Hall currently the only viable long-term option, injuries or suspensions could leave that area dangerously exposed.

Bringing in a defender capable of stepping in on either flank would ease that concern and help provide the depth and balance Howe has been seeking since last summer.

The club missed the opportunity to strengthen defensively during the previous window and paid the price through inconsistency and vulnerability in key fixtures.

Savona, still only 22, represents more than just a stopgap solution. His age, combined with top-level experience at one of Europe’s most demanding clubs, makes him an intriguing long-term asset.

Juventus’s need to sell adds a layer of urgency to the talks, which may work in Newcastle’s favor if the club can move swiftly and decisively.

While the fee involved is yet to be revealed, it is clear that Newcastle are positioning themselves early in the negotiation process — a smart shift from the hesitation that has cost them in the past.

The idea of importing quality from abroad isn’t just about saving money; it’s about finding players with the right technical foundation, tactical maturity, and adaptability to thrive under the demands of the Premier League. Savona ticks many of those boxes.

While fans are right to remain cautiously optimistic — after all, many potential deals never cross the finish line — this particular move feels calculated, logical, and, more importantly, necessary.

The club’s defensive unit needs reinforcement, and Savona could provide exactly what’s been missing: versatility, youth, top-level experience, and untapped potential.

If Newcastle can get this one over the line, it may prove to be one of the savviest moves of their summer rebuild.