After being left out of the matchday squad this week – his punishment for a reluctance to extend his contract – the Newcastle United target did not even have the luxury of watching on in piece as his team-mates secured a hard-earned 1-0 win in his absence.

Restricted to a spectator’s brief in the director’s box, the talented young centre-half was admonished by many unhappy supporters – Infoebae report – with his contract situation played out in public for all to see.

HITC understands that Newcastle have sent scouts to watch Boca Juniors in action on a number of occasions in recent times. Eddie Howe’s side are keen on Kevin Zenon, the versatile, 22-year-old midfielder with a £10 million release clause in his contract.

There is interest in Nicolas Valentini too. A left-sided centre-half who may find himself climbing up Newcastle’s summer wishlist following the ACL injury which could keep Sven Botman out of action for the remainder of 2024.

Newcaste United scout Boca Juniors duo

Valentini’s current deal expires in December. And, unless he changes his stance, Boca may have little choice but to cash in on the 23-year-old, Italian giants Inter and AC Milan having already spoken to Valentini’s camp about a bargain switch to the San Siro.

“We remain totally open to renewing,” says Maximiliano Pra, Valentini’s agent. “(But) we simply did not accept the offer they made us.”

Infobae add that Boca Juniors were willing to significantly increase Valentini’s salary, while including a £12.8 million release clause in his contract. It is not certain how much the Argentina Under 23 ace could go for this summer. But, with free-agency approaching, Boca may find themselves listening to offers in the seven-figure range.

Magpies looking to offset Sven Botman’s ACL blow

Newcastle, who have also lost Jamaal Lascelles to a long-term injury, are looking at another left-sided c centre-half with an expiring contract. Lloyd Kelly is due to leave AFC Bournemouth on July 1st as things stand.

And HITC understands that Newcastle are stepping up their interest, in an attempt to beat Tottenham Hotspur, Liverpool and Milan to the former Bristol City ace. Kelly, who worked alongside Howe at Bournemouth, has – like Valentini – turned down the most recent extension offer.

“He’s certainly someone who I think could have leadership capabilities as he grows through his career,” Howe said of Kelly back in 2020.

“He is an outstanding player. (Kelly has) got great potential.”

Newcastle’s transfer plans are likely to be impacted by those Financial Fair Play concerns, meaning affordable talents such as Kelly and Valentini could come in very handy. It remains to be seen if the Tyneside outfit – regardless of their ambitious Saudi Arabian backers – can afford some of their more expensive targets.

Sporting Lisbon striker Viktor Gyokeres, for instance, has an £86 million release clause in his own contract.

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