Newcastle United keen on highly-rated Serie A defender Giorgio Scalvini | OneFootball

Newcastle United have set their sights on Atalanta centre-back Giorgio Scalvini, according to The Times.

A centre-back is a priority for manager Eddie Howe to strengthen his defensive options.

Dan Burn, Fabian Schar and Jamaal Lascelles are the only centre-back options available, while Sven Botman’s fitness is an ongoing issue.

Newcastle’s search for a new defender has proven to be challenging. Dean Huijsen was earmarked as the top target, but Real Madrid signed him from Bournemouth.

Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi is also on the wishlist, but Liverpool have overtaken the Magpies in the transfer battle.

Newcastle have turned their attention towards Scalvini, who is available for £30 million.

The 21-year-old is one of Serie A’s most promising defensive talents, playing a pivotal role in Atalanta’s Europa League triumph in the 2023/24 season.

However, a string of injury issues saw him miss the 2024 European Championship and a large chunk of the 2024/25 season for Atalanta.

A tall and physical defender, Scalvini is also excellent with the ball at his feet, making him an ideal target for Howe’s style of play.

Having sold Matteo Ruggeri to Atletico Madrid, the Bergamo-based outfit would try to keep Scalvini as they will play in the Champions League next season.

Napoli have also been linked with a move for Scalivini, but they are currently working on a deal to sign Bologna centre-back Sam Buekema.

The centre-back partnership of Burn and Schar was monumental last season, inspiring Newcastle to success in the League Cup.

However, the Magpies are looking to reduce their workload, given they will participate in the Champions League next season.