Newcastle United have opened talks over a deal for Sampdoria defender Omar Colley as Steve Bruce eyes signings before Monday’s deadline, according to Tuttomercatoweb.
While the Magpies are no closer to bringing in a left-back or the kind of barnstorming, box-to-box midfielder they have been crying out for since the start of 2019/20, there may still be one new face through the St James’ Park door this week.
Despite signing a new contract until 2025 less than a fortnight ago, Sampdoria are in talks to sell their Gambia international centre-half.
Newcastle entered discussions yesterday, joining Sampdoria in the race for Colley’s signature.
Olympiakos were also interested before landing former Arsenal ace Sokratis on a free transfer 24 hours ago.
The well-travelled, late-blooming Colley recently had an affordable release clause in his contract. We’re only speculating here but you’d presume Sampdoria attempted to remove that clause when tying the 28-year-old down to a new deal earlier this month.
Standing at 6ft 3in, Colley is a commanding centre-half renowned for his aerial presence. He was one of the most reliable defenders in Serie A in 2019/20 but fell out of favour during the first half of this season.
Colley would add further competition at the heart of a Newcastle defence already containing Jamaal Lascelles, Ciaran Clark, Fabian Schar and the underrated Federico Fernandez.
Corriere dello Sport first reported Newcastle’s interest in September, stating Colley is valued by Sampdoria at £14 million.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
