Newcastle United transfer target Nicolo Zaniolo has reportedly told Roma that he wants to leave the Italian club as soon as possible.
That is according to Gazzetta Dello Sport (via Sport Witness), who state that the Serie A side are willing to grant the 23-year-old’s wish, and have decided how much they will sell him for.
The Italian outlet report that Zaniolo is now available for between £30million and £35million. That is a rather modest fee for a young man with a lot of potential.
However, his contract is due to expire in the summer of 2024, and he is unwilling to sign an extension. And with Zaniolo not playing as well as he previously has, Jose Mourinho’s side are seemingly willing to cash in.
That could alert Newcastle, who have been linked with signing the attacking midfielder.
Newcastle interested in signing Nicolo Zaniolo
Another Italian website, Corriere Della Sera, claimed last week that Newcastle are one of multiple clubs who have asked for information about Zaniolo. They state that this would be for a summer move, rather than a January approach.
However, Zaniolo’s desire to leave Roma now could focus minds and see the Magpies bring their interest forward by six months.
The 2022 Europa Conference League winner would be a good addition at St James’ Park, and would join the likes of Alexander Isak and Sven Botman, who have been brought to Tyneside for their potential as well as their current ability.
Zaniolo is the right age for Newcastle, but Dan Ashworth will face a lot of competition if he does decide to make a move. Plenty of Premier League clubs are keen, including Tottenham.
Sky Sports have claimed that Spurs have had a bid rejected for Zaniolo. They might feel they have an advantage in this transfer pursuit, as they can offer him the chance to play under legendary Italian manager Antonio Conte.
In contrast, Newcastle’s main pull is the project, but it was not enough to convince Zaniolo last year.
Sky Italia reported in June that Howe’s side made a move to sign him, but he rejected the chance to join the Magpies due to a lack of Champions League football.
That could soon be on the horizon on Tyneside, but a deal for Zaniolo still feels unlikely.