Turkish outlet C2 Haber deliver an update as Newcastle pursue Merih Demiral – claiming that he is keen on a move to Tyneside and that Newcastle are ready to pay more than £17m to sign the Turkey international.
Demiral, 24, has spent the last season on loan at Serie A side Atalanta. Starring for Gian Piero Gasperini’s men, he has played 42 times, helping the attacking-styled side keep 12 clean sheets and even scoring twice himself.
He only remains on loan at Atalanta from Juventus. Initial reports from CalcioMercato last week stated that Atalanta were set to pay the permanent fee, but could sell him on just as quickly for a quick profit – as much as £43m.
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However, the latest report says that Atalanta are refusing to pay the permanent fee in his Atalanta contract and that means Newcastle would be buying cheaper from Juventus. Juve want slightly above £17m.
The report says that Newcastle are willing to meet that figure – as Atalanta chose not to buy him after failing to qualify for European football. Demiral is said to be keen, holding a ‘positive view’ on a Toon move.
Newcastle pursue £17m Demiral: Keen on a move
An absolute bargain. Demiral is easily worth £30million, if not more. A defender that already has 35 caps for Turkey, a player that was a key part of Juve’s side last season before injury, too.
Now, he has been strongly linked with a move to the Premier League in recent seasons. Newcastle need a defender. If they cannot get Sven Botman this week, then Demiral at £17million is the next-best alternative.
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