Sources: Favourites named in Newcastle and Tottenham race for Giorgio Scalvini

Newcastle United and Chelsea are slightly ahead of Tottenham in the race to sign Atalanta centre-back Giorgio Scalvini, sources have told Football Insider.

Both the Magpies and the Blues have already made contact with the 22-year-old's representatives, although neither have yet reached the stage of club-to-club talks. 

Atalanta are reluctant to lose the young defender, but will entertain a sale provided that their £40million valuation is met in full. 

It is understood that it is currently an "open race" between Newcastle and Chelsea for Scalvini's signature. 

Tottenham currently find themselves one step behind and are being a little more cautious with their money after some big spending earlier in the window. 

Scalvini appears increasingly likely to leave Atalanta with Premier League interest building, but the Italian side are keen to ensure that a deal happens on their terms. 

Scalvini closing in on Premier League move

Scalvini has developed into a promising young defender with Atalanta in recent years, and he became one of the first names on the team sheet for them last term. 

The youngster started 23 games in Serie A in an injury-hit campaign, and also chipped in with three goals and one assist.

He typically operated on the right side of Atalanta's three-man backline, but it appears increasingly likely that they will have to work without him this term. 

Newcastle have shown a sustained interest in the Italy international in recent months, and Chelsea and Spurs have now joined the race. 

With the number of interested parties growing constantly, it is becoming increasingly difficult for Atalanta to keep hold of their star man. 

The Italian side have tried to protect their asset with a high valuation, but the lure of the Premier League may ultimately drag him away.

Eddie Howe knew about Bruno Guimaraes' exit weeks ago

Football Insider revealed on Monday that Bruno Guimaraes told Eddie Howe about his desire to leave Newcastle several weeks ago.

The Magpies are desperately trying to deny their club captain a move away, and have now rejected an official offer from Arsenal.

However, Guimaraes' desire to leave should come as surprise to the North East outfit, given that their old boss Howe met with him during the World Cup to discuss his future.

Newcastle are now at risk of seeing a repeat of the Alexander Isak situation, with Guimaraes making it clear on several occasions that he wants to leave.