Jaissle’s First Signing: Newcastle Make Contact to Sign ‘World-Class’ Star

Signing a new defender is on Newcastle United’s agenda ahead of Matthias Jaissle’s arrival as Eddie Howe’s replacement.

Jaissle is expected to take over from Howe following the English coach’s decision to leave earlier this week. While replacing Bruno Guimaraes will be a priority ahead of his widely anticipated move to Arsenal, other areas of the squad also need addressing.

A 12th-place finish in the Premier League last season means the Magpies will not be competing in Europe during Jaissle’s first campaign in charge. The German coach will be keen to build a squad capable of challenging for European qualification.

Newcastle Make Contact for Giorgio Scalvini

Newcastle are keen to sign a new centre-back and are among the clubs to have made enquiries about Atalanta defender Giorgio Scalvini. The Italian has been linked with the Magpies before, including last summer.

According to Tuttomercatoweb, both Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur have checked on the defender’s availability. Atalanta have made it clear they will not sell the 22-year-old for less than €50 million (£42.7m).

Scalvini is regarded as one of Atalanta’s most important players and one of Serie A’s brightest young defensive talents. He was part of the side that won the Europa League in 2024 and has since developed into one of Italy’s most highly rated centre-backs.

Head coach Maurizio Sarri reportedly views him as a key part of his defence, meaning only a significant offer is likely to convince Atalanta to sell this summer.

Scalvini Could Be an Ideal Signing

Newcastle supporters are eager to see the club show ambition in the transfer market, and signing Scalvini would represent a major statement. The defender impressed again last season, scoring three Serie A goals and proving to be a threat from set-pieces.

After deciding against meeting Atalanta’s asking price last summer, Newcastle instead signed Malick Thiaw from AC Milan. The German enjoyed a promising first season despite enduring a difficult outing in the defeat to Barcelona at Camp Nou.

With Newcastle’s recruitment team continuing to monitor Serie A, Scalvini could become another top defensive addition. Previously described as a “world-class talent,” the Italian would be a signing capable of exciting supporters and helping Jaissle build a squad capable of returning to the UEFA Champions League.