As Newcastle United make their return to the UEFA Champions League next season, the Magpies may be led from the back by one of Italy’s finest young defenders if they can pull off a major transfer move.
Eddie Howe is reportedly ‘very interested’ in landing 21-year-old Giorgio Scalvini from Atalanta, according to Italian journalist Matteo Moretto.
But Newcastle are not alone in the race for Scalvini with Serie A champions Napoli also chasing him this summer.
Atalanta are aiming to stand firm over the situation and have labelled Scalvini a ‘key player’ and Bergamo giants plan to keep him for at least one more year.
Matteo on Scalvini 👀 #nufc pic.twitter.com/SwfKPAFK7u
— MadMag (@toonmadmag) June 22, 2025
Despite this apparent rejection, Newcastle are studying their next steps over the 21-year-old, and talks are reportedly in the works, with Moretto claiming ‘the next few days’ will be crucial in deciding whether a bid is made.
The towering centre-back has already earned eight senior Italy caps and was crowned the Best U21 Italian Player back in 2023.
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He’s played 107 games for Atalanta since his 2021 debut, scoring five goals and laying on five assists.
Why do Newcastle United want Giorgio Scalvini?
Newcastle’s pursuit of Scalvini comes as part of clear drive to refresh and reinforce their aging backline.
With key defenders like Fabian Schar, Dan Burn, Jamaal Lascelles, and Emil Krafth all over 30, the Magpies face a ticking clock on their defensive options.
Injuries have exposed their lack of depth, and failed moves for Marc Guehi and Dean Huijsen have increased the urgency.
Scalvini’s versatility, composure and aerial presence make him an ideal fit for Howe’s system and a vital piece for Newcastle’s UCL ambitions in 2025/26.
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