Atalanta respond to Newcastle transfer bid for Duvan Zapata as Robin Gosens eyes move

Atalanta have rejected Newcastle’s opening offer for Duvan Zapata, Express Sport understands. The Colombian striker, who has hit 78 goals in 152 outings for the Serie A outfit, was the subject of an initial loan bid that also included an option to buy at the end of the season.

Reports of an informal bid for Zapata emerged over the course of the weekend as Newcastle eye their second striker of the window following the £25million capture of Chris Wood from relegation rivals Burnley.

However, Express Sport can now reveal the offer has been rejected by the Italian club.

The proposal was an initial loan until the end of the season with an option to buy in the region of £22m.

The total package of the deal was understood to be worth around £25m.

READ MORE: Taylor’s Tuesday Transfers: Newcastle target new forward, Arsenal and Aston Villa medicals

The Magpies have already held positive conversations with the player’s representatives and there is optimism he’d be willing to make the move to Tyneside.

Atalanta are not overly keen on selling either player this month, as they look to consolidate a top-four finish in Serie A.

Newcastle are optimistic they will get a deal over the line for Sevilla centre-back Diego Carlos this week, though.

The board are willing to shell out up to £30m to complete the deal while Sevilla could yet entice them into paying over that figure.

WATCH (VIDEO) – WHAT IT’S LIKE TO COVER TRANSFERS

A centre-back remains of priority to Eddie Howe after his side failed to hold onto their 1-0 lead against Watford on Saturday.

Joao Pedro stunned St James’ Park and delivered a major body blow by heading in an 88th-minute equaliser for the Hornets.

The late goal once again highlighted Newcastle’s need for a new central defender having recorded just one win in 20 Premier League matches.

Newcastle are hoping to make at least three more signings by the time the window closes on January 31.