PIF green light move as Newcastle hold “significant” talks to sign Palestra
Newcastle United have now secured the backing of the PIF to launch a major bid to sign the Serie A star in what could be their second addition of the summer.
Newcastle are holding talks to sign the defender
It is already threatening another busy summer at St James’ Park, which was started by the departure of Anthony Gordon and continued by the arrival of goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen.
After last year’s last-minute business to settle the departure of Alexander Isak, it should come as no surprise that Ross Wilson is aiming to turn things around in his first summer as sporting director.
Jaouen could be a starter for Newcastle this summer. Recent reports suggest they are willing to welcome a number of new names and could win the race to sign Abde Ezzalzouli as Gordon’s replacement.
With Jaouen coming in to replace Nick Pope and Ezzalzouli lined up to replace Gordon, it could be a summer of finding replacements at St James’ Park.
It’s a theory that’s gaining legs and is being aided by the club’s pursuit of a right-back in Serie A. According to Corriere dello Sport, via Sport Witness, Newcastle have held “significant” talks to sign Marco Pelestra from Cagliari and have the green light from PIF to match the Italian club’s €50m (£43m) asking price.
Talks of such big money could suggest that Tino Livramento or Lewis Hall are heading for the exit door. The first received a lot of interest last summer and that will continue one year later. Meanwhile, Hall steals the headlines amid a potential move to Manchester United.
Why Newcastle should spend big on the Palestra
Losing Hall or Livramento would be a huge blow this summer. After missing out on Champions League football, however, Newcastle may have little say in the matter.
Rumors last month even went as far as to suggest that Livramento has agreed a deal with Premier League champions Arsenal, putting Newcastle on alert.
A move for the right-back could turn the Palestra into a key target ahead of next season, and it’s easy to see why he’s on Newcastle’s radar, as long as he can play both sides.
|
25/26 |
Livramento |
Palestra |
|---|---|---|
|
Minutes |
1,328 |
3,084 |
|
Fighting |
22 |
55 |
|
It helps |
1 |
4 |
|
Recovery |
81 |
116 |
|
Duel success |
55% |
59.6% |
Called “excellent” by U23 scout Antonio Mango, Palestra’s presence will give Eddie Howe a more reliable option than Livramento, as will his outfield. With the investment, the Magpies could welcome a quick upgrade this summer.
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