Newcastle United are in the hunt to sign Sassuolo defender Gian Marco Ferrari, according to Calciomercato.
The Italian outlet report that Sampdoria are attempting to wrap up a deal for the 26-year-old centre-back after he spent the season on loan at the club, but a permanent move has been brought into question amid interest from elsewhere.
Calciomercato claim that Sampdoria agreed the loan with an option to buy at £11million, but the club are now seeking a lower price this summer, with Sassuolo not interested in striking such a deal.
This dispute may open the door for other interested clubs such as Newcastle and Fulham, who are ready to pounce on any opening.
Good move for Newcastle United?
Yes.
Ferrari was a crucial part of the Sampdoria defence as they completed an impressive season in the Serie A, with the club finishing in tenth in the table.
The 6ft 2in enforcer [Transfermarkt] played 31 games for Sampdoria in all competitions, and looks like he would be ready to make the step to the Premier League.
The possibility of a deal being struck around the £11million mark will make this one even more enticing for the Magpies as they look for some bargain signings this summer.
Nothing but Newcastle rating: 7.5/10
Likely to happen?
It looks like Sampdoria are still the favourites to sign Ferrari this summer as they look to work out a deal with Sassuolo, but any slip up on their part will open the door to other clubs in the hunt.
Newcastle would look to be at the front of the queue among those also in pursuit, with a move to the Premier League to play for Rafa Benitez surely to be appealing to any player.
Nothing but Newcastle rating: 2/10
