Newcastle exploring £35m deal for Leonardo Balerdi - Report

A new name has been linked with a surprise move to Newcastle United this afternoon, suggesting the club's search for a new centre-back has moved abroad.

According to The Mail, in a story from Craig Hope and colleague Simon Jones, Newcastle are now working on a deal to sign Marseille's Leonardo Balerdi.

The reports states that Juventus have been exploring a deal for the 26-year-old centre-back, but Newcastle have sensed an opportunity to pounce with the Serie A giants facing financial issues and a limited budget.

Balerdi has been impressing in Ligue 1 under former Brighton boss Roberto de Zerbi and it's believed Newcastle are now exploring the possibility of a £35m deal being struck for the Argentine international.

This comes as Liverpool press ahead with a move for Crystal Palace's Marc Guehi, leaving Toon chiefs to explore other options now a deal for Eddie Howe's long-term target looks increasingly unlikely.

Balerdi captains Marseille and has made 164 appearances for the Ligue 1 giants since arriving from Borussia Dortmund four years ago.

He stands 6ft 1' and has experience of European football, making 24 appearances across the Champions League and Europa League.