Inter Milan reportedly feel £50 million is ‘nowhere near’ enough for Nicolo Barella as Newcastle United face a battle luring the Italy international to the Premier League.
It is common knowledge that cash-strapped Inter must sell at least one of their star players this summer in order to ease those Financial Fair Play concerns. With euros bleeding out of the San Siro, the sharks are circling.
Newcastle United are the first to bite; The Telegraph reporting that Eddie Howe’s Champions League-bound side are ‘pushing hard’ to seal a deal in the region of £50 million for Nicolo Barella. The former Cagliari ace is reportedly viewed as an upgrade on the departed Jonjo Shelvey.
As understatements go, that is up there with saying ‘that Lionel fella is alright, isn’t he’.
Newcastle United hope to sign Inter Milan’s Nicolo Barella
Barella has blossomed into one of Europe’s finest midfielders at the San Siro. He was a key cog in Antonio Conte’s Scudetto-winning machine in 2021. Last season, he managed 19 goal contributions (nine goals, ten assists) for an Inter side who came a Romelu Lukaku sitter away from stunning Manchester City in the Champions League final.
But while Inter need the money, they will be bullied into a cut-price sale.
Fabrizio Romano reports that a bid of £50 million is likely to be ‘nowhere near’ enough. There is also no agreement with Newcastle over personal terms as things stand.
Tuttosport back up those claims. They believe that Inter – such is Barella’s importance to Simone Inzaghi’s plans – are likely to demand closer to £70 – £80 million for a 26-year-old Italy international who’s fearsome combination of physical and technical gifts would potentially make him the ideal addition to Eddie Howe’s boisterous, in-your-face midfield, alongside Bruno Guimaraes, Joelinton, Sean Longstaff and Chris Willock.
“Nicolo has strength, energy and quality,” Conte said during their time together at San Siro.
“In terms of how he plays, Barella reminds me of former Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes. (He) was a really great player,” adds former Inter owner Massimo Moratti.
“He’s really been a great signing for Inter.”
If the Nerazzuri are unwilling to reduce their £70 million asking price, Newcastle may be forced to look elsewhere. The Daily Mail believe that Howe will have just £75 million to spend this summer, though his budget could be enhanced by a couple of sales.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
