Newcastle ramp up talks to sign Nicolo Savona | OneFootball

Newcastle United have stepped up their pursuit of Juventus defender Nicolo Savona, with talks accelerating over a potential move to the Tyneside outfit (Tuttosport).

Per the report, “No official offers have yet been received from Turin, but the Magpies appear to be serious: updates are expected imminently.”

The 22-year-old Italian emerged as one of the most promising defenders in the Italian top flight last season, making 28 league appearances for Juve under Igor Tudor.

Several Premier League clubs reportedly admired Savona, but Newcastle have shown the strongest interest in his services.

The Magpies want to add depth to their backline and view Savona as a high-upside option who can grow into a starting role.

Hailed by former Italy boss Luciano Spalletti as a player with ‘great football skills‘, Savona is a natural right-back, but Tudor has used the 6ft4ins star as a centre-back.

Savona caught the eye in Turin by stepping up during an injury crisis, even displacing club captain Danilo.

While his defensive metrics (33% aerial duel win rate, 56% ground duels won per 90) suggest room for physical improvement, his tactical awareness has impressed scouts.

Newcastle must be eager to get a deal for Savona over the line after facing disappointment on multiple fronts as they bid to reinforce their roster.

The Magpies failed to sign targets like Bryan Mbeumo, Liam Delap, Joao Pedro, Hugo Ekitike, Matheus Cunha, Dean Huijsen, and James Trafford this summer.

Newcastle also face a fight to keep Alexander Isak amid interest from Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal.

Like the Magpies, they are owned by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF).

It remains unclear how the Premier League will look at the deal.

Meanwhile, the club is trying to tie down Valentino Livramento amid interest from Manchester City.

They do not want to lose the right-back, but the Cityzens are preparing to come forward with a £65 million bid. The Magpies might resist the offer.