Newcastle United are pursuing AC Milan defender Fikayo Tomori as the club looks to inject experience into a backline thinned by a summer of heavy departures, according to reports from Italy.

Italian publication Gazzetta dello Sport reported that Tomori was absent from Milan's recent friendly against Chelsea after new manager Ruben Amorim left him out of the squad, signalling that the Canada-born centre-back may not feature in the Portuguese coach's plans. Quotidiano Sportivo has since added that Newcastle are actively "knocking" for the 28-year-old's signature, with Championship side Coventry City also said to be interested.

A squad depleted by departures

The Magpies have endured a turbulent transfer window, losing Kieran Trippier, Anthony Gordon, Sandro Tonali, and most recently captain Bruno Guimaraes. New head coach Matthias Jaissle has focused his recruitment on younger players with development potential, leaving the first team short of seasoned experience at the back.

Tomori's versatility could appeal to Newcastle—he is capable of operating as a central defender or at full-back. The right-back position remains a concern following Trippier's free transfer to Wolverhampton Wanderers, and questions persist over Lewis Hall's long-term future at the club.

Amorim's decision opens the door

While Amorim is widely associated with a three-at-the-back system—a formation that might ordinarily suit Tomori—the defender has endured a difficult 12 months, struggling at times with the demands of a high defensive line. His form has dipped, and Milan are reportedly in no hurry to extend his contract, which expires in a year's time.

Those circumstances mean Milan would find it difficult to command a significant transfer fee. According to Transfermarkt, Tomori is currently valued at €17 million—a relatively modest figure for a player who was previously considered one of Europe's most promising centre-backs.

England career in the background

Tomori has represented England at senior level six times since making his debut in 2019, having previously switched his international allegiance from Canada's under-20s. His most recent cap came under Thomas Tuchel, when he started at left-back in a friendly against Uruguay in March.

Newcastle face Liverpool on the opening day of the Premier League season as Jaissle's squad continues to take shape.