NEWCASTLE are plotting a January swoop for Atalanta midfielder Ederson, according to reports.
Eddie Howe’s squad has been ripped apart by injuries and suspensions in recent weeks.
Ahead of their 2-0 defeat to Bournemouth on Saturday, those unavailable included Alexander Isak, Callum Wilson, Sven Botman, Dan Burn, Harvey Barnes, Sandro Tonali and Jacob Murphy.
Miguel Almiron was then replaced after half an hour with an injury of his own.
And Swiss defender Fabian Schar withdrew from international duty on Wednesday due to a knock.
It leaves Newcastle in a desperate situation with regards to the depth of their squad heading into a busy schedule.
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They are still in all four competitions – the Premier League, Carabao Cup, Champions League and FA Cup.
According to Tutto Atalanta, Newcastle are preparing to address those issues with a £35million bid for Brazilian holding midfielder Ederson, 24.
The Magpies are understood to have made the “first approaches” to sign the player.
And Atalanta are said to be calm about the situation as they eye a profit for the man they brought in from Salernitana for around £18m in January 2022.
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The Italians will listen to “monstrous offers” that are “impossible to refuse”, but will not be entertained by any proposal less than £35m.
It remains unclear whether a January sale is on the table, with Newcastle keen for mid-season reinforcements.
Ederson has contributed five goals and one assists in 16 appearances so far this season.
He is yet to make his debut for Brazil’s senior side, but has earned one cap for the U20s.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk