Following this morning’s news from Italy that Georginio Wijnaldum had made it clear to Newcastle that he wants to leave the north of England, Gazzetta dello Sport provide extra information as to why that is.
The pink Italian newspaper look at the AS Roma news for the day, and the general consensus is the same: with Miralem Pjanic now gone, a replacement is needed and Newcastle’s Dutchman is a top target.
Described as the ‘hottest’ of the players on the club’s transfer wishlist, the former Feyenoord man has already received a pre-contract offer from the Serie A club, who are willing to offer him a four-year deal to take him away from St James’ Park.
Not particularly wanting to part with one of their best players, Newcastle are prepared to make things difficult for Luciano Spalletti and co. as they informed the third best team in Italy they require €30m for Wijnaldum.
Having just received €32m from Juventus, the demand, while affordable, is a bit high for Roma, who, according to Gazzetta, are only prepared to pay up to €18m for the attacking midfielder.
Such a difference in valuation might take some time to resolve, but the interest seems to be genuine, and the player appears to clearly be looking for a way out.
