Newcastle United have reportedly scouted Duvan Zapata.
According to The Chronicle, Newcastle United are interested in Atalanta striker Duvan Zapata after a superb season in Serie A this term.
The Magpies are likely to be in the market for a new striker this summer, given that Salomon Rondon is only on loan from West Bromwich Albion, and Joselu is expected to leave.
It remains to be seen just how much Mike Ashley is willing to commit to a new forward, but some big-money strikers are being linked – and another can be added to the list.
The Chronicle report that Newcastle have checked out Zapata in action for Atalanta of late, with Rafael Benitez seemingly keen on a reunion with the Colombian.
The pair worked together at Napoli, and Zapata told Fanta Gazzetta that he thinks Benitez is a ‘great coach’ even though he didn’t play much under the Spaniard.
Zapata, 27, is enjoying his best season yet having scored 22 goals in 37 games this season, proving to be a sensation in Serie A this term.
Zapata understandably won’t come cheap though. Gianluca Di Marzio reports that West Ham failed with a €40million offer in January, and Atalanta now want €50million (£43million) according to Tuttomercatoweb.
It would be a huge surprise to see Newcastle spend that kind of money this summer, even if Zapata would be a huge addition to Benitez’s attacking options.
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