Federico Chiesa is one of the best young talents in Italy (Getty Images)
As per La Nazione (h/t Burnley Express), Newcastle United are weighing up a shock move for Fiorentina star Federico Chiesa in the summer. They may have to pay around £54m to secure his signature.
Having joined Fiorentina way back in 2007, Chiesa, 22, rose through the academy ranks and made his senior debut in 2016. Since then, he has appeared in 143 matches, scoring 29 goals and assisting 20 times, making him an integral part of the squad.
He has also made 17 appearances for Italy since making his debut in March 2018. And despite Fiorentina’s poor run of form which has seen them slip to 13th position in the league table, the winger has performed well and is one of the bright spots in the team.
His impressive performances haven’t gone unnoticed, with several top clubs vying for his signature. Premier League clubs like Chelsea and Manchester United are also keen on the youngster, as per The Express.
The Magpies have been deprived of options in the wide areas. Allan Saint-Maximin and Christian Atsu are the two wingers available on the left side of the attack. But they lack a right-winger. As a result, the manager turned toward Miguel Almiron, who is an attacking midfielder by trade, to operate on the right side of the attack.
The Paraguayan has not been at his best but he has improved in the past few months, scoring 8 goals in 38 games across all competitions. Though they have a natural winger in Jacob Murphy, who is on loan in the championship, Newcastle need to bring in right-wingers to add depth to their attacking unit.
To that end, signing Chiesa would definitely add firepower to the Magpies attack. The Italian youngster has been in sensational form in the last three seasons, scoring a decent number of goals while also providing assists regularly. This season, he has already racked up 7 goals and 5 assists in 30 games across all competitions and is one of the best young forwards in Europe.
He is just 22 and has already shown glimpses of his potential. Chiesa could be a crucial player under Bruce if he can replicate the same form he has shown.
It is clear that Newcastle are in dire need of right-wingers for next season. Chiesa would definitely bring in quality, whilst he can also provide them with the much-needed goals. Thus, they should manage to lure the Italian to St. James’ Park this summer. It would be quite a signing by Newcastle.