Newcastle make former Inter Milan captain top January transfer target

by Alex Hams @alex_hams share

7/10/2015 | 04:22pm

Newcastle are ready to ease their defensive concerns with a January move for unsettled Inter Milan centre-back Andrea Ranocchia, according to reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport.

The Magpies have endured a woeful start to the current campaign and currently sit rock-bottom of the Premier League table with three points from eight games – they are yet to win a match.

Perhaps the biggest worry at St James’ Park is the porous nature of Steve McClaren’s backline, which has now been breached on seventeen occasions already following the embarrassing 6-1 defeat at the hands of Manchester City.

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And reports suggest that the Tynesiders are looking to address concerns with a move for 6ft. 5” Italy international Ranocchia.

The centre-back is currently out of favour at the San Siro under manager Roberto Mancini, who stripped him of his role as captain earlier this year and has handed him a minimal first-team role this term.

The 27-year-old is understood to be unsettled at the club and could opt to leave over the winter.

As well as Newcastle, reports claim Everton, Spurs and AC Milan are keen.