Newcastle United are set to launch an initial £50m bid to sign Italian midfielder Nicolo Barella from Inter Milan this summer, according to a report from Telegraph Football.
Inter Milan star Barella has been one of Simone Inzaghi’s most consistent performers since he joined the club, and his performances have caught the eye of teams all over Europe.
Newcastle boss Eddie Howe intends for his side to add quality players and has found Barella, named Serie A Midfielder of the Year, to be one such player. The Magpies are prepared to offer around £50m for the Italy international this summer.
Following their third-place finish in the Premier League in 2022-23, Newcastle are keen to recruit smartly to maintain their stand among the best teams in the league. The pursuit of Barella means that the club is no longer interested in pursuing a deal for James Ward-Prowse.
Newcastle news: Nicolo Barella perfect fit for Magpies midfield
Italian midfielder Barella is the perfect player to partner Bruno Guimaraes in midfield and give the Brazilian the freedom to move further upfield at certain times in the game. He will provide ball security and has a few goals in him, as well.
BREAKING: Newcastle United are in talks with Inter Milan over a £50m deal for Nicolo Barella 💰⚫ pic.twitter.com/VF2Z8JkxGl
— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) June 14, 2023
Barella is known for his work ethic and all-action nature in midfield. Playing for Inter, he has been one of the best deep-lying midfielders in Europe in the last two years.
Inter Milan are in no rush to sell Barella and are expected to reject the Magpies’ approach in favour of a higher transfer fee for the midfielder who played a pivotal role as Italy won Euro 2020.