Newcastle to rival Lazio in the race for Davide Frattesi | OneFootball

Newcastle United have emerged as rivals to Serie A side Lazio in the race to sign Inter Milan midfielder Davide Frattesi, according to Corriere dello Sport.

The Magpies are actively exploring midfield targets as they prepare for life under Matthias Jaissle.

Newcastle initially held talks with Inter over young prospect Aleksandar Stankovic, but after the Milan club ruled out his departure, Inter directed the Premier League side towards Frattesi as a more realistic market opportunity.

Inter Milan have placed a €25 million valuation on Frattesi as they aim to raise immediate transfer funds.

Nerazzurri manager Cristian Chivu sees sanctioning a permanent exit for the energetic box-to-box midfielder as necessary, as he looks to streamline his squad, free up wages, and reinvest the proceeds ahead of a title defence next season.

Lazio have also been pursuing Frattesi to bolster Gennaro Gattuso’s midfield options, but the Roman club are in a weaker negotiating position.

Due to financial constraints, Lazio can only propose an initial loan with a conditional option to buy, well short of Inter’s expectations.

This situation gives Newcastle a clear advantage. With significant financial resources from recent high-profile sales, the Magpies can submit a permanent bid that meets Inter’s requirements.

Additionally, Newcastle’s strong relationship with Frattesi’s agent, Giuseppe Riso, could further aid negotiations.

Frattesi, known for his goalscoring instincts from midfield, is understood to be open to a Premier League move for the first time in his career, having previously been linked with Nottingham Forest.

With Inter keen to secure a sale, Frattesi is a concrete target for Newcastle.

Frattesi is not the only Serie A player on Newcastle’s radar, with Hellas Verona defender Rafik Belghali also wanted on Tyneside.