Newcastle United Are Showing Interest In This Serie A Defender: What Will He Add To Howe’s Team? | OneFootball

In a recent report, Corriere Dello Sport (via Sport Witness) revealed that Newcastle United are showing interest in Salernitana defender Lorenzo Pirola this summer. It has been claimed that the Magpies are eyeing a move to acquire the services of the Italian centre-back later this year.

Pirola’s Impressive Form In Serie A This Season

Pirola is enjoying a solid campaign at the Italian club after putting in a series of impressive displays at the heart of their backline. The Italian talent has played in 26 matches for Salernitana this season, netting two goals in multiple competitions.

The 22-year-old has been a good performer when defending inside his half based on his average of 1.3 tackles, 0.8 interceptions and 3.2 clearances per game in Serie A. He has even been accurate when distributing the ball from the back after making 84% of his attempted passes in the Italian top tier (stats via whoscored).

His current contract at the Italian club will expire in the summer of 2027. Hence, Newcastle would have to launch a big offer if they are serious about recruiting Pirola later this year.

SALERNO, ITALY – MARCH 16: Lorenzo Pirola of US Salernitana during the Serie A TIM match between US Salernitana and US Lecce at Stadio Arechi on March 16, 2024 in Salerno, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)

What Will Pirola Add To Newcastle United Boss Eddie Howe’s Side?

Pirola is a good tackler of the ball and can time his challenges well to earn possession back for his team inside his half. He doesn’t mind putting his foot through the ball when the opposition are on the offensive and excels at playing his way out from the back.

Standing at 1.88m, the Italian sensation can use his strong frame to win a few 50-50 duels in the air for his team. However, there are some concerns over whether he can adapt to the high intensity of Premier League football if the Magpies manage to bring him on board this year.

We can expect Pirola to add more bite and steel to Newcastle‘s defensive department. He might even help Eddie Howe’s side compete across all fronts in the coming years. Thus, it makes sense for the Tyneside club to go all out to snap Pirola up at the end of this campaign.

Newcastle to consider in the summer transfer window.