After being linked with a move to Newcastle United during the January transfer window, Nicolo Zaniolo is now set to sign for Galatasaray.
That is according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, who has stated that the Italy international will sign a permanent deal with the Turkish side.
Romano has tweeted out the famous three words ‘here we go’, which means that a deal is complete – unless it is Joao Pedro to Newcastle.
He has stated that Zaniolo will sign a deal until 2027, with Galatasaray set to pay Roma £17.8million including add-ons for the 23-year-old. Romano adds that the move includes a release clause worth £31million.
It is an interesting transfer for Zaniolo, as it was just last month that he looked set for a move to the Premier League.
Newcastle one of multiple Premier League clubs keen on Nicolo Zaniolo
Throughout January, it became apparent that Zaniolo was going to leave Roma. He had no future with Jose Mourinho’s side, and looked certain to secure a move away.
A transfer to the Premier League appeared to beckon, with English top flight clubs queueing up to sign the Italian midfielder.
Tottenham were heavily linked with him, while there was reportedly a bid from Newcastle – despite the fact Zaniolo allegedly turned down a move to St James’ Park last summer.
Calciomercato reported last month that the Magpies had proposed a loan deal with Roma. It included an obligation to buy him for £31million if he featured in 75% of our games before the end of the season.
The Serie A side said no, which seemingly ended Newcastle’s interest.
There was also talk of a move to Bournemouth late in the window, with the Cherries having a bid accepted. However, that deal collapsed and now Zaniolo is off to Turkey.
If he excels in the Super Lig and Newcastle still fancy bringing him to Tyneside, his release clause will give them the option to for £31million – the figure that Roma turned down.