Abdulhafiz TeslimNewcastle United open talks for Serie A star as Magpies target affordable midfield solution
Interest from the Premier League in Parma midfielder Mandela Keita is continuing to grow, with Newcastle United now joining the race for the highly rated Belgian.
Earlier this week, Sport Witness reported that Everton and Leeds United were also keen on the 24-year-old. Atalanta had initially identified Keita as a target but have since shifted their attention to Gianluca Gaetano.
That has opened the door for English clubs, with Keita impressing during his two seasons in Serie A. He has made 70 appearances for Parma, establishing himself as a key figure in midfield under Carlos Cuesta.
Parma signed the midfielder for €12 million in 2024 and now stand to make a significant capital gain should they decide to sell him this summer.
Parma aware of growing interest
According to ParmaToday, Newcastle United have already made enquiries about a potential move.
The report states that the list of clubs interested in Keita continues to grow, with the midfielder viewed as an ideal fit for the Premier League. Parma are carefully evaluating the situation, and he could become one of the club’s most notable departures this summer, with goalkeeper Zion Suzuki also attracting transfer interest.
Journalist Guglielmo Trupo has also confirmed Newcastle’s interest, adding that Parma are expected to value Keita between €20 million and €25 million.
Atalanta could still re-enter the race despite completing a deal for Gaetano. TuttoAtalanta reports the Serie A side are still considering adding two more midfielders, with Mandela Keita remaining on their shortlist, although a move for AC Milan’s Ardon Jashari is considered difficult.
Magpies’ interest makes sense
Keita is naturally a defensive midfielder but is also capable of playing in a more advanced box-to-box role thanks to his athleticism and physical presence.
His versatility makes him an attractive option for Newcastle United as they look to strengthen their midfield following Sandro Tonali’s departure. The Magpies also have a strong understanding of the Italian market, and a deal could prove relatively affordable unless rival clubs intensify the competition with formal offers in the coming weeks.
Abdulhafiz Teslim
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