Newcastle United have reportedly made contact over a potential 'statement summer signing' amid their current crisis of availability due to injuries.
The Magpies were the stars of the 2022/23 season, astonishingly finishing in the top four in their first full season under Saudi Arabian ownership.
Probably the biggest surprise was that Eddie Howe managed to accomplish this with a lot of the same squad who had been battling relegation in the seasons prior, with the likes of Joelinton, Miguel Almiron, and Fabian Schar all pulling their weight.
Advert
With this in mind, it's no real surprise that Newcastle have had a significant drop-off this season, with Howe's men finishing rock bottom of their Champions League group despite a promising start to the competition.
The Toon have also seen their Premier League fortunes worsen, but they are still in with a good shout of some sort of European football as the side currently eighth in the table.
However, they have been hit with a rather lengthy injury list as key men such as Botman, Joelinton and Pope all currently sidelined.
Advert
With the Saudi Arabian owners desperate for the club to continue to make positive strides, they are expected to be active in the summer transfer window, and the according to Calciomercato.it they have identified Juventus forward Federico Chiesa as an option.
The Italy international winger is reportedly highly sought after in the Premier League, particularly by Newcastle who lead the way.
According to the report, Newcastle have already contacted the player's representatives, who are seeking an improved contract for him. Currently, he earns €5m per year with Juventus.
Advert
This season Chiesa's relationship with Juventus manager Massimiliano Allegri has turned sour, leading to the 26-year-old being open to a move despite having a contract until 2027.
Unfortunately for Newcastle, Allegri could be on the way out of Turin which could persuade Chiesa to stay. However, with the winger's representatives keen on an improved deal the interest from Tyneside could pressure Juventus into cashing in on the player.
Tom Jenkins