Newcastle is reportedly leading the chase for Inter Milan midfielder Davide Frattesi, who may be available in January due to FFP concerns.
Newcastle United have reportedly returned to the transfer fray for Davide Frattesi, a target they pursued during the summer window.
According to a report from TuttoJuve, the Magpies are well-placed to secure the Italy international’s signature, with Inter Milan’s FFP worries potentially forcing a sale in January. Such a move would allow the Nerazzurri to improve other areas of their squad.
Inter had rejected a late approach from Newcastle for the midfielder in the summer, deeming him a key player.
However, this has “naturally not proved true” this season, as Frattesi has only started once in Serie A, accumulating less than 200 minutes in the league. Consequently, an exit in January is now viewed as a “real possibility.”
The report suggests that Newcastle United are likely to hold an advantage in the race despite competition from Italian giants Juventus, AS Roma, and Napoli.
This is mainly because the Premier League is said to present a “strong appeal” for the 26-year-old, who reportedly prefers to play in England rather than join another Italian side.
The midfielder is believed to be a “significant leap in quality” for Newcastle, as manager Eddie Howe seeks to improve his options in the engine room.
The situation is further aided by the belief that Frattesi’s valuation is “likely to have reduced since the summer,” which could be an important factor for the Magpies in their mid-season planning.