Milan and Newcastle United are pit together in yet another transfer market tussle, this time for Roger Ibanez. The duo has put forth an official inquiry for the Roma defender. Despite being a mainstay in José Mourinho’s backline, is not guaranteed a stay at the capital club.
According to Italian outlet Il Messaggero (via Calciomercato), the former Atalanta man is being scouted by both Milan and Newcastle ahead of the new European season, as both teams look to bolster their backline. Despite being a starter, Ibanez is evaluating his future at the club and may leave Stadio Olimpico. His Roma contract expires in June 2025.
? | 3⃣0⃣9⃣7⃣⏱️ | Tammy Abraham
? | 2⃣8⃣8⃣9⃣⏱️ | Rick Karsdorp
? | 2⃣8⃣8⃣8⃣⏱️ | Roger IbanezOur three most-used outfield players during the 2021-22 Serie A season! ?#ASRoma pic.twitter.com/gHZh5o7OQJ
— AS Roma English (@ASRomaEN) June 30, 2022
The Giallorossi value Roger Ibanez around the €20M mark, making him financially accessible to not only Newcastle but also Milan, who are dealing with the loss of Alessio Romagnoli to Lazio on a free transfer.
The Magpies beat the Rossoneri earlier this summer by signing Sven Botman from Lille. Apart from the Magpies and Milan, Barcelona and Tottenham are also reportedly interested in the highly-rated Brazilian stopper. The versatile defender made 51 uninterrupted appearances under Mourinho last season, even scoring four goals in the process. The Giallorossi have recently been linked with Red Bull Bragantino’s Natan and Feyenoord’s Marcos Senesi to add depth to their rearguard, or potentially replace the 23-year-old.