Report: Big Newcastle United centre back update after Anthony Elanga deal

Newcastle United remain firmly in the hunt for defensive reinforcements this summer, with interest in Atalanta’s Giorgio Scalvini continuing to build momentum behind the scenes.

The club sees the young Italian centre-back as a potential long-term successor to Fabian Schar, whose time on Tyneside appears to be approaching its final chapter. Schar turns 34 this year and with his contract entering its final 12 months, Eddie Howe and the recruitment team have made identifying a young, high-potential replacement a clear priority.

The signing of Anthony Elanga has already addressed a key area of the squad, with Howe finally getting his long-coveted right-winger.

But with Callum Wilson’s departure now official, the focus quickly shifts toward strengthening the frontline as well as fortifying the defence for the demanding 2025/26 campaign.

Alexander Isak may be the headline striker, but Newcastle’s lack of depth across both attacking and defensive positions is something Howe aims to address with urgency.

Scalvini’s name has risen to prominence in internal discussions despite his injury troubles during the 2024/25 season. Still only 21, the Atalanta defender is admired across Europe for his composure, technical ability, and maturity beyond his years.

He broke into Serie A at just 17 and has since built a reputation as one of Italy’s finest emerging centre-backs. Newcastle’s recruitment team has been tracking his progress for some time, and his style fits the vision Howe has for his defensive line—mobile, intelligent, and comfortable in possession.

However, the reported £52 million price tag has given Newcastle reason to pause. Such a fee would place Scalvini just below Sandro Tonali in the list of the club’s most expensive signings, a substantial investment for a player who managed only eight appearances last season.

Although some reports suggested initial talks had taken place between Newcastle and Atalanta, more credible sources, including The Athletic, have since clarified that no formal bid has been submitted and that the Magpies are still in an observational phase.

Scalvini continues to be monitored closely, but no movement is expected unless conditions become more favorable.

In parallel, Newcastle still hold interest in Marc Guehi of Crystal Palace. With just a year remaining on his current deal and no intention to renew, Guehi could become a more accessible option should Palace become open to negotiation.

However, Palace’s high valuation of their England international has previously put off Newcastle, and unless their stance softens, that door may remain shut.

Should the Scalvini deal prove too costly or complicated, Newcastle have other names in their sights. One such alternative is Malick Thiaw, a player who came close to joining the Magpies in 2024.

The move was derailed due to financial constraints and differences in valuation. Yet recent developments suggest the German centre-back could return to the radar.

Thiaw had been on the verge of a £21 million switch to Como earlier this summer, but the transfer collapsed after the player declined to proceed, leaving his future uncertain once again.

Thiaw’s profile remains attractive to Newcastle—not only is he significantly more affordable than Scalvini, but his physical presence, international experience, and versatility across the back line give Howe the kind of reliability and depth he seeks.

As things stand, Howe continues to keep tabs on the situation, and if negotiations prove more straightforward than last year, the club could revive its pursuit of the AC Milan defender.

With pre-season preparations underway and the transfer window heating up, Newcastle’s defensive plans are still in motion.

Whether the club pushes for Scalvini, waits for Palace to soften their stance on Guehi, or reignites interest in Thiaw, what remains clear is that Howe intends to build a backline ready to compete across all fronts.

The coming weeks could define the trajectory of the club’s recruitment strategy and ultimately determine whether the foundations for sustained success are properly laid.