According to reports in Turkey, Newcastle are now the ‘favourites’ to sign Galatasaray midfielder Nicolo Zaniolo despite interest from Juventus and an unnamed Saudi Arabian side.
This comes from Turkish-Football, who report that we’ve entered talks with the Italian’s agent and received encouragement that the 24-year-old would be keen on a move to St James’ Park.
Zaniolo has only been at the Super Lig club for six months and has made an immediate impact, scoring five goals in his opening 10 league games.
It’s thought a team from Saudi Arabia have also shown interest and have submitted an offer, but the player would prefer to stay in Europe. Juventus are also big admirers, however, the Serie A giants aren’t in a position to pay his £30m release clause.
Newcastle are thought to be prioritising a move for a right-sided centre-back, yet there’s been a lot of noise from the Turkish media in recent weeks regarding our alleged interest. We were linked during his time with Roma, he’s still young, his versatility could appeal – he can play up top, on the right or as an attacking midfielder – he’d bring European experience, more height (6ft 3′) and may also help fellow Italian Sandro Tonali settle.
The question is, have we really reignited our interest or are these claims from Turkey best taken with a hefty pinch of salt? I suspect it may be the latter and potentially all agent-driven, but he could be another one to watch.
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