Atalanta prepared to sanction the sale of Newcastle target Giorgio Scalvini | OneFootball

Atalanta BC are ready to part ways with Newcastle United target Giorgio Scalvini, according to Tutto Atalanta.

The 22-year-old Italy international features prominently on manager Eddie Howe’s defensive shortlist.

With Newcastle actively seeking a long-term central defensive partner for Sven Botman, Scalvini’s distribution, aerial ability and tactical flexibility make him an ideal fit.

While Atalanta previously insisted their academy graduate was not for sale, the Bergamo hierarchy has now softened their stance.

If an interested club meets their €45 million valuation, La Dea are prepared to greenlight negotiations to generate money for a squad rebuild after Ederson’s proposed move to Manchester United fell through.

Scalvini has previously expressed admiration for the intensity of English football.

Having already made over 100 senior appearances for Atalanta and earned eight caps for Italy, the young defender brings considerable experience.

Howe’s recruitment team view Scalvini not only as an immediate solution to recent defensive injuries, but also as a generational anchor around whom the club can build for the next decade.

His ability to step into midfield complements Newcastle’s style of play.

Newcastle have monitored Scalvini’s progress over recent seasons. With Atalanta now signalling a willingness to negotiate, direct talks between the two clubs could begin in the coming days.

The future of Bruno Guimaraes is the main talking point on Tyneside. Arsenal will look to accelerate a move for the Brazilian midfielder this week.