Everton and Newcastle United in mix to sign ‘El Tanque’ for €30m

Parma’s Mateo Pellegrino has grown in the last year or so, with Everton and Newcastle United attentive to his situation.

The striker joined the Italian club from Velez Sarsfield in January 2025. Since then, he has become a recognised goalscorer, finding the net 15 times in all competitions. In the 2025/26 Serie A season, he scored nine times and helped them survive relegation.

Sport Witness have previously covered how he has attracted interest from the Premier League. Nottingham Forest sent scouts to keep a close eye on him but never made a formal approach.

Now, the possibility of the Argentine ending up in England is rising once again.

Italian side have decision to make

SportParma report that Pellegrino’s name has ‘officially entered’ the transfer market. A host of clubs are interested in him, with teams in England specifically alert to his situation.

The striker is now on the shortlist of both Everton and Newcastle United. The outlet believe both clubs are looking for younger players to bolster their attack.

If they make an offer, Parma would consider Pellegrino’s sale. The financial strength of the two clubs could prove decisive, with the Crociati having spent only €2m to sign him in early 2025. Velez have a 50% sell-on clause, which can increase Parma’s valuation.

They currently value ‘El Tanque’ at €30m, which is likely to be problematic for Italian clubs. Fiorentina, Bologna and Como are interested but they would be priced out of a move this summer.

Player has hit a ceiling

Increasingly, it feels like Pellegrino can’t do much more at Parma.

This summer is probably the right time for him to leave. He can play in a team that has more of the ball and has the physical traits to cut it in the Premier League.

While tall, he also has a very good left foot that allows him to link-up with fellow attackers. He has a nose for goal, with his height allowing him to be dominant in the air.

Everton and Newcastle United have signed players from Italy in recent years. So their interest is no surprise. One thing that can be a weakness is Pellegrino’s lack of dynamism. He has to be used in a very specific way or he can struggle.