Newcastle United are reportedly in a battle with two clubs who finished in the top-half of the Premier League to sign Omar Colley in the summer window.
The Lowdown: Defence needs improving
The St. James’ Park faithful certainly need to improve on their defence if they are to finish higher than they did in the top flight in the 2020/21 season.
The North East club conceded no fewer than 62 goals despite finishing in 12th place, the fifth-most in the division (Sky Sports).
The Latest: Colley eyed
As per SampNews24, the Tyneside club are currently monitoring Colley ahead of a potential move, along with Leeds United and West Ham United, who both finished in the top half of the table in the Premier League.
Steve Bruce’s team will need to pay a fee in the region of at least €10m (£8.6m) to secure his signature.
The Verdict: Sign
Given his six-foot-two frame, Colley should have no problems adapting to the physical and aerial demands of the top flight, and could well give the Magpies a threat in both boxes, winning nearly three aerial battles per game in Serie A last term.
The Gambia international would provide another handy option for Bruce at the back, and his displays for Sampdoria in the Italian top flight certainly show that he can perform at the highest level.
Colley won no fewer than 4.3 of his duels per game in the division, as well as averaging 4.6 clearances, 2.3 interceptions and one tackle per match, helping his side keep six clean sheets (Sofascore).
Nonetheless, at £8.6m, he is relatively affordable for the Toon, and certainly seems to have the potential to make that fee look like a bargain.
In other news, find out what the latest is on NUFC’s talks to sign this Premier League ace here!
