Merih Demiral is not heading to Newcastle United anytime soon.
That’s according to the Chronicle, who claim the Magpies have turned down the chance to sign the Turkish defender.
Demiral was linked with a move to St James’ Park last week, with the 24-year-old reportedly open to joining Eddie Howe’s side. It was claimed he could cost around £17million, which was a decent fee for a young player with so much potential.
However, it looks like Demiral’s future belongs in Italy.
Atalanta complete Demiral signing
The defender spent last season on loan at Atalanta, who had the chance to make him a permanent signing.
It initially looked like he would be returning to Juventus, with a report stating that Atalanta weren’t going to sign him. This seemed like good news for Newcastle in their pursuit of the defender.
However, that report appears to have been inaccurate with the Bergamo side confirming that they’ve exercised their option to sign Demiral permanently.
Newcastle reject Demiral offer
While Atalanta were always in pole position, it looks like Newcastle did get the chance to sign Demiral.
The Chronicle report that Juventus did offer the Magpies the chance to land the centre-back. However, Newcastle said no.
Demiral could still move again this summer, with the Chronicle adding that Atalanta could sell him on for a profit. However, they add that Newcastle will be looking elsewhere for now.
It’s clear that Eddie Howe wants to sign a centre-back this summer. He wants someone who can play alongside Fabian Schar, who signed a new contract earlier this year.
We’ve been linked heavily with Sven Botman, while Nathan Ake is also a target.
Howe wants a left-footed centre-back, which Demiral isn’t. That’s probably why Newcastle have turned down the chance to sign him right now.
He would have been a good addition for the Magpies, but he’s not what we’re looking for at the moment. Our priority is a left-sided central defender.
Perhaps Newcastle will revisit Demiral once that position is filled, but for now he’s staying in Italy.
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