Newcastle United have been given a boost in their pursuit of Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper Salvatore Sirigu after the Italian’s agent claimed that cash-strapped Serie A clubs cannot afford the 28-year-old.
The Evening Chronicle claim that Newcastle are assessing their goalkeeping options ahead of the January window, despite second and third choice keepers, Rob Elliot and Karl Darlow, returning to fitness – and Sirigu’s name has been mentioned.
As we reported last week, the experienced stopper has fallen out of favour with PSG following the summer arrival of Kevin Trapp, and the Parisians have told the disgruntled Italy international that he is free to leave the Parc Des Princes should he receive a suitable offer.
The Magpies were expected to be rivalled by Serie A giants AC Milan and Lazio in their pursuit of Sirigu. However, speaking to Radio Olympia (as translated by talkSPORT), the Italian’s agent Carlo Pallavinco poured scorn on rumours linking his client with a return to his homeland:
Lazio can’t afford him and that’s the same for most Serie A clubs, even top ones. Maybe Sirigu is not paid as much as PSG’s main stars, but things are like that for Italy at this time
Steve McClaren underlined the importance he places on having a top-quality No 1 by sensationally claiming that Tim Krul’s season-ending injury could cost Newcastle a staggering 20 points over the course of the 2015/16 campaign.
The Magpies currently sit 17th in the Premier League table, just one point above the relegation zone, and McClaren may push for the January signing of a high-caliber goalkeeper to help his struggling side fight their way out out of danger.
With vast experience at both international and Champions League level, Sirigu would certainly fit the bill.
