Super-agent says 'fearless' star rejected Newcastle in January, now he could join Arsenal for £50m

By Shamanth Jayaram

In his column on CaughtOffside, Italian super-agent Roberto De Fanti has revealed that reported Arsenal target Gianluca Scamacca rejected a move to Newcastle United in January.

The talented Italian striker is a subject of a lot of interest this summer. It was reported just a few days ago that Arsenal failed with a £34 million bid, while other reports have since suggested that the Gunners are not giving up in their pursuit.

Scamacca, a full Italy international, is a fantastic striker. Branded as ‘fearless,’ the 23-year-old had a fantastic season in the Serie A, scoring 16 goals for a side that finished 11th.

If everything goes Arsenal’s way in the next few weeks, Scamacca could well make the switch to the Emirates, but things could’ve been very different now – he could’ve easily been a Newcastle United player.

• Report: Arsenal scouts have been raving about Gianluca Scamacca

Arsenal-linked Gianluca Scamacca rejected Newcastle move in January

De Fanti revealed in his column: “It is rumoured throughout the industry that Arsenal made a £25m (€30m) offer to Sassuolo for Scamacca in the last couple of days.

“The club’s general manager also said that it is very likely the striker will leave to play in the Premier League.

“Sassuolo has rejected Arsenal’s opening offer though. The fee needed, I believe, will be about £50m. Sassuolo has already pushed back offers from clubs in the Premier League – Arsenal, of course, and Newcastle United.

“The Magpies wanted him back in January – it was a really, really good offer, but the player, understandably, did not want to risk joining a club who were facing the possibility of being relegated.”

• Report: Arsenal insisting on pursuit of ‘excellent’ Scamacca, next few days key for Edu and Arteta

TBR View:

Newcastle really had to work hard in January. The possibility of relegation was very high at that point, and many players weren’t too keen on taking that big risk.

Eddie Howe managed to convince Bruno Guimaraes, Chris Wood, Kieran Trippier, Dan Burn and Matt Targett of his project and immediate plans, and every single one of those players contributed and helped the Magpies achieve safety.

The Magpies further need to strengthen this summer, and it won’t be a surprise at all to see them revive their interest in Scamacca, who is a truly magnificent young striker.

However, with Arsenal in the race as well, who have already reportedly tabled a bid, Mikel Arteta’s side may well be in the driving seat for his signature at the moment.

• Report: Arsenal bid £34m to sign Scamacca, but he rejected them immediately