In a recent report, Tuttosport (via Ilbianconero) mentioned that Newcastle United made a move to sign Juventus defender Federico Gatti earlier this summer. It has been claimed that the Magpies launched a €25m offer to land the Italian centre-back but failed to do so in the recent summer transfer period.
Gatti’s Good Run Of Form In Serie A
Gatti enjoyed a decent campaign at the Turin club after he put in a series of solid displays at the centre of their backline. The Italian defensive ace made 36 appearances for Juve last season, scoring four times across all fronts.
The 26-year-old was a rock at the back based on his average of 1.0 tackles, 0.6 interceptions and 2.6 clearances per 90 minutes in Serie A football. He was even tidy when distributing possession from inside his half, as evidenced by his pass success rate of 86.1% in top-flight football (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at Juventus will run out in the summer of 2028 which could make it difficult for the Magpies to get a deal done for him on the cheap next year.
Should Newcastle United Boss Eddie Howe Go Back For Gatti?
Gatti is a tough-tackling defender who can read the danger well to make the odd interception for his team on the defensive third of the pitch. He usually puts his foot through the ball when required and can play his way out from the back.
Standing at 1.90m, the Italy international can use his strong frame to dominate the opposition attackers in the air. However, there are some concerns over whether he can cope with the high intensity of Premier League football if Newcastle can devise a way to bring him on board next year.
Gatti would have no doubt added a lot of bite and steel to Eddie Howe’s defence. However, with the transfer window closed, the Magpies have now got no option but to wait before they can move in for him once again in 2025.
At 26, Gatti has his peak years ahead of him which makes him a good option for the Tyneside club to pursue this January or at the end of this campaign. With all things considered, Howe should focus on going back for Gatti soon.
