Report suggests West Ham have scuppered Newcastle’s Stefano Sturaro hopes

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Newcastle United and West Ham United are both reportedly keen on signing Italian international Stefano Sturaro from Serie A giants Juventus.

After being linked with Stefano Sturaro for over a year, Newcastle United are still keen on bringing the Juventus midfielder to St James’ Park.

Tuttomercatoweb even reported recently that the Magpies had made an £11.4 million bid for the Italian international, whose modern blend of both work-rate and creativity would make him an excellent addition to Newcastle’s already impressive central midfield.

But it seems that Newcastle, once again, could be left disappointed in their pursuit of a top target.

Tuttosport reported last week that West Ham United had moved into pole position after meeting Juventus’s asking price, understood to be £17.5 million, for a player who recently celebrated a fourth straight Serie A title.

And, according to the Chronicle, West Ham might just have blown Newcastle out the water.

It is understood that Newcastle would be unlikely to afford Sturaro at a fee of £17.5 million, so may be forced to look elsewhere for potential midfield additions as Mikel Merino heads for the exit.

Missing out on Sturaro will be a blow for Rafa Benitez, who is allegedly a big admirer of the versatile midfielder. But it seems that, once again, finances will stand in the Spaniard’s way of bringing a real talent to Tyneside.

And a hefty dose of salt will be applied to the wounds if Sturaro starts next season as a West Ham player.