Newcastle United hunt Serie A solution as Eddie Howe braces for key star's departure

Newcastle United could revisit their interest in Inter Milan’s Davide Frattesi as doubts continue around Joelinton’s future.

The Magpies strengthened their midfield during the summer by signing Jacob Ramsey from Aston Villa yet their reportedly late attempt to sign the Italian showed their lingering priorities.

According to the Teamtalk, the Magpies interest haven’t gone away and the Eddie Howe's side are closely monitoring his situation in Italy as the Brazilian’s name circulates among Saudi Pro League targets.

Joelinton remains under contract until 2028 and is a crucial figure at St James’ Park but reports of lucrative Saudi proposals have unsettled his long-term prospects.

The Brazilian’s  number has been productive last year, he averaged 0.26 non-penalty expected goals plus expected assists per 90 minutes, placing him in the 83rd percentile among midfielders, according to the Fbref.

He dominated in the air, winning 2.40 aerial duels per match which ranks him in the 95th percentile.

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Frattesi, meanwhile will bring a different profile that could appeal to Eddie Howe’s system.

The Italy international has struggled for minutes at Inter, recording only two appearances this season yet his efficiency remains striking in the last 365 days.

He produced 0.39 non-penalty goals per 90, ranking in the 99th percentile while consistently arriving into dangerous areas with 3.07 touches in the opposition box per game.

His passing output is low but his forward runs and ball-carrying align with Howe’s preference for dynamic, box-to-box midfielders.

Inter value Frattesi reportedly at around €40m [$47m] and Newcastle could view January as a realistic opportunity to act before rivals intervene.