According to Italian reports, Newcastle are one of a number of teams to have enquired about Juventus midfielder Stefano Sturaro.
What's the story?
Newcastle will go head to head with Genoa and Valencia for the signature of Sturaro this summer, according to a report from Calciomercato.
The report claims Juventus are interested in Genoa goalkeeper Mattia Perin as a long-term replacement for the departing Gianluigi Buffon, and that Sturaro could be used as part of the deal.
Newcastle and Valencia have also enquired about the midfielder though, who would surely prefer Premier League action with Newcastle or Champions League action with Valencia over a move to Genoa.
Made to be a Magpie?
Newcastle stumbled across a formidable partnership in midfield this season when Mo Diame suddenly remembered he’s actually quite a good player, but that shouldn’t stop them from going after Sturaro.
Diame had a fabulous season for the Magpies alongside Jonjo Shelvey, but the Senegalese midfielder will turn 31 this summer, and the 25 year-old Sturaro is too good to pass up on as a long-term replacement.
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The midfielder will certainly be seeking a move away this summer, as he has only played 614 minutes in the league for Massimiliano Allegri’s side this season.
Sturaro would offer the Magpies defensive stability in midfield, and his versatility would be a huge weapon for Rafael Benitez. The Italian international, capped four times by his country, has played everywhere across the midfield for the Italian champions this season, even spending some time at right back.
If Benitez is serious about guiding the Magpies towards a domestic cup run while maintaining their form in the Premier League, then a midfield quartet of Sturaro, Diame, Shelvey and Mikel Merino would give him no end of options both in personnel and system.
Furthermore, his tough tackling, hard working style would be a perfect fit on Tyneside. The Italian international also has title winning experience, which might just provide that winning mentality needed to push Newcastle to the next step.
So, Newcastle fans, would you back a summer swoop for Sturaro? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below…