Newcastle make first move to sign £38m defender, but something does not add up

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Newcastle United have already completed a deal for Lloyd Kelly, but he is not the only centre-back that the Magpies want to sign this summer.

Eddie Howe would also like to add a new right-sided centre-back to his squad, with Newcastle eventually needing to identify Fabian Schar’s long-term replacement.

Right now, it is difficult to envision who Newcastle United will bring in. It will largely depend on how big the Magpies’ summer budget is, with a huge chunk of it expected to go towards a right winger.

Whoever arrives could cost as much as £60million, which may limit Newcastle’s ability to splash out on a centre-back. For example, Marc Guehi has been linked and would be perfect, but he is definitely going to cost more than £50million if he is to leave Crystal Palace.

Newcastle linked with Alessandro Buongiorno

Now a cheaper option has emerged for Newcastle, with a report in Italy claiming that Toon officials have got their eye on a player who is currently at Euro 2024.

According to Corriere dello Sport, Newcastle United have made contact about possibly signing Torino defender Alessandro Buongiorno. They report that the Magpies have received information about the 25-year-old, who is part of the Italy squad at this summer’s Euros.

Buongiorno is yet to feature for the reigning champions, who were beaten 1-0 by Spain on Thursday night after an incredible performance from Nico Williams.

Corriere dello Sport add that Torino want a deal worth £38million for Buongiorno, who is also attracting a lot of interest from Napoli.

Alessandro Buongiorno rumours make little sense for Newcastle

It is a new name for Newcastle United fans to ponder, but it is a rumour that does not make much sense.

While the Magpies are looking to sign another centre-back this summer, it would be really strange if they splashed out on a player like Buongiorno.

That is because he is actually left-footed, and usually operates as a left-sided centre-back – or in the middle of a back three.

That is exactly what Newcastle do not need, especially after the arrival of Lloyd Kelly. He is also left-footed, and has the same kind of versatility as Dan Burn – who is another left-footed defender.

Between them, they will provide cover for Newcastle’s first choice left-sided centre-back, with Sven Botman, who is also left-footed, currently out of action after suffering an ACL injury.

While theoretically you could play with two left-footers, it is highly unlikely that Howe will go down that route. Therefore, there is surely no reason for Newcastle to sign Buongiorno, especially not when he is going to cost £38million.