Newcastle Linked with Napoli's Alessandro Buongiorno as Sven Botman Replacement

Newcastle United have identified Alessandro Buongiorno as a potential replacement for Sven Botman if the Dutchman is lured away from St James’ Park this summer, SportsBoom can exclusively reveal. 

Aged 26, Buongiorno is viewed as one of the most effective centre-halves in Serie A, having impressed for both Napoli and the Italian national team in recent seasons.

Physically strong and with a combative attitude, crucially the former Torino defender’s playing style is similar to Botman which has not escaped the notice of Eddie Howe’s recruitment department. 

And that has seen his name added to a list of potential summer signings should Botman, who reportedly interests a number of Premier League clubs including Chelsea, is either deemed surplus to requirements by The Magpies or decides his future lies elsewhere.

Buongiorno is also predominately left-footed, limiting the disruption to Howe’s squad should he decide to perform a close season overhaul given that Botman also prefers to operate on that side of the pitch. 

Botman Future In Doubt

Despite signalling he would rather keep Botman in the North-East, Howe could be forced to sacrifice the Netherlands international in order to fund a remodelling exercise as his employers attempt to comply with both domestic and European financial regulations. 

Buongiorno is unlikely to come cheap, with no indication the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium’s hierarchy are minded to sell. 

Nevertheless, even though Howe’s men were among a number of high-profile English departures from the Champions League earlier this month, the Premier League remains an attractive destination for Serie A’s leading talents.

A childhood Torino supporter, Buongiorno made over 100 appearances in all competitions for his hometown club after progressing through its youth programme. 

He also completed spells on loan with Carpi and Trapani before completing a reported £30m move to Campania in 2024. 

Buongiorno has been capped 12 times by his country having also represented them at youth and under-21 level.