Newcastle United ‘identify’ Kieran Tierney alternatives as ‘contact’ made with free agent and Serie A star

Newcastle United have been repeatedly linked with a move for Arsenal star Kieran Tierney over the last week - but the Magpies are believed to be considering two alternatives to the Scotland left-back.

Reports in Italy have suggested United recruitment staff have watched Inter Milan defender Federico Dimarco on several occasions and revealed the Serie A giants would consider selling the 25-year-old if they were to receive ‘a truly indispensable proposal’ of around £35m.

InterLive have reported Tierney has been identified as the Magpies number one target as they look to boost their options on the left-hand side of their defence. With Matt Targett missing a large proportion of the season through injury, Dan Burn has enjoyed a lengthy run at left-back - but there have been strong suggestions United view the position as one in need of strengthening during the summer transfer window.

Dimarco could be a useful alternative to Tierney and would bring experience of featuring in European competition after making 12 appearances in the Champions League over the last 18 months. His form also earned a first senior call-up to the Italy squad when he made his debut as a substitute in a 1-1 draw with Germany in June 2022 and he has gone on to earn a further seven caps with the Azzurri.

Magpies ‘in contact’ with representatives of free agent

Dimarco is not the only player said to be under consideration by the United hierachy after reports in Spain stated the Magpies have sent a proposal to the agent of Benfica star Alex Grimaldo.

The former Barcelona academy defender is out of contract at the end of the season and is believed to have significant interest from the likes of Juventus, Atletico Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen as he heads towards a highly-successful seven-year spell at Estadio da Luz.

The 27-year-old has claimed three Primeira Liga titles and lifted the Portuguese Cup and League Cup during his time with Benfica and would bring significant experience of European competition after making 64 appearances in the Champions League and Europa League over the last seven years.