Newcastle United have placed Atalanta center-back Giorgio Scalvini at the top of their defensive shortlist as the transfer deadline approaches. The 22-year-old Italian international has long been admired by the recruitment hierarchy at St James’ Park. Newcastle want younger center-backs capable of challenging their current starters as they continue to refresh their squad profile. However, while interest in the defender is concrete, it remains uncertain whether the Premier League outfit will launch a formal bid before the current window shuts.
Any potential move for Scalvini carries complexities, not least due to growing competition across Europe. Both Internazionale and Juventus are actively monitoring the situation for the highly regarded Italian. Compounding Newcastle’s dilemma are concerns regarding the defender’s recent injury history. These physical setbacks have prompted discussions inside St James’ Park about whether to delay a formal pursuit until the January transfer window, allowing staff extra time to evaluate his fitness.
Scalvini is not the only target under consideration as Newcastle assemble a defined shortlist for upcoming transfer windows. Midfield reinforcement remains a primary focal point, with 19-year-old AZ Alkmaar talent Kees Smit identified as a standout target following an inquiry earlier in the summer. Additionally, the recruitment team continues to track Scalvini’s Atalanta teammate, 25-year-old midfielder Éderson. Up front, Porto striker Samu Aghehowa has drawn interest, though his prohibitive asking price presents a hurdle. Meanwhile, a move for Wolves forward Jorgen Strand Larsen—who received two bids from Newcastle last summer—is now less likely following Yoane Wissa’s arrival.
The landscape around Atalanta itself is shifting rapidly as the deadline approaches. While Newcastle evaluate their pursuit of Scalvini, the Bergamo side is in advanced talks to sign Southampton forward Kamaldeen Sulemana for around €18 million on a permanent transfer, with new Atalanta coach Ivan Juric keen to reunite with the 23-year-old Ghana international. Elsewhere in the market, Fiorentina defender Dodó is one step away from joining Nottingham Forest in a €10 million deal, while Sunderland are willing to submit a £51 million bid for Sporting CP winger Geny Catamo.
In goalkeeper movements across Europe, Monaco and Napoli are competing for Torino goalkeeper Vanja Milinkovic-Savic in a potential €20 million move, while former Galatasaray goalkeeper Fernando Muslera is set to complete a free transfer to Estudiantes de La Plata on a contract running through December 2026. For Newcastle, the immediate focus remains on balancing tactical ambition with player availability as deadline decisions draw near.
