Inter Milan captain Andrea Ranocchia has emerged as a transfer target for Newcastle United, according to Gazzetta World.
The Italian has been struggling for game time in Roberto Mancini’s starting XIs, with the manager favouring Jeison Murillo, Joao Miranda and Gary Medel instead.
The 27-year-old would reportedly consider the Premier League as a realistic destination option if he was to leave Italy.
There is, however, a possibility that AC Milan look to muscle their way into any deal, too.
They may need to offload a player or two first, potentially Mexes, but staying in Milan could possibly appeal to Ranocchia.
With the European Championships looming in 2016, Ranocchia would need to get more time on the pitch to boost his chances of representing Italy in France – or at least to make the squad at all.
According to Premium Sport, Everton and Tottenham Hotspur are also weighing up making a move for the defender. Newcastle may well have some competition.
