Newcastle told at least €30-35m needed to sign Italian after seeing €25m January offer ‘refused’

Newcastle United are expected to compete with Juventus for the signing of striker Giacomo Raspadori this summer.

That’s according to Tuttosport, relayed by FC Inter News, who say the Magpies saw a €25m bid rejected in the January transfer window.

They explain that following a two double against Turkey for Italy during the international break, the rumours surrounding Raspadori’s future have increased.

Juventus are trying to ‘make a move’ on the basis of a loan for a small sum and a right, or obligation, to buy him in the summer of 2023. In other words, they want to defer paying for the striker until next year.

However, they are not the only side keen on him, with Inter also known to be admirers but ‘on the back foot’ at this moment in time as they look at Paulo Dybala.

Newcastle, meanwhile, tried to get a deal done in January but saw a €25m ‘refused’ by Sassuolo, who have made it clear they will not start negotiations for less than €30-35m.

It is ‘not excluded’ that figure could continue to rise as Raspadori continues to impress and potentially add to his nine goals and five assists this season.

That is unlikely to scare off Newcastle given their almost unlimited funds, which they’ve barely dipped into despite spending in January.

They can certainly match Juventus and pay this summer, unlike the Italian side, who seem determined to defer payment for a year.

That might give Newcastle something of an advantage, and as far as they’re concerned in Italy, they are certainly set to be competition for the likes of Juve and Inter.