Newcastle appear to be targeting a youngster returning in January to provide additional cover for the position. With Emil Krafth out until the latter stages of the season, only Kieran Trippier and the rarely used Javier Manquillo are on board.
Over the weekend, The Mail reported that interest continued in West Ham’s Harrison Ashby. Newcastle attempted to add the Scotland U21 international at the end of the summer but were rebuffed by the Hammers.
This report also announced that Leeds right-back Cody Drameh was also on the shortlist. That claim is now back by transfer genius Fabrizio Romano who tweeted the following on Monday.
Cody Drameh, sparking interest as many clubs want to sign him in January from Leeds. ??????? #LUFC
Borussia Dortmund, Lille and Bayer Leverkusen alongside Newcastle are tracking the England right-back as a talent for the future. pic.twitter.com/hvnjctVPlT
— Fabrice Romano (@FabrizioRomano) November 14, 2022
Adding a young right-back makes a lot of sense. He will not only provide emergency cover but will also be able to learn under one of the best in the business in Kieran Trippier for the next two seasons. Although Drameh has made his desire to play Elland Road known.
As Romano reported, Drameh has big admirers at Lille and the two German clubs, renowned for their ability to add budding talent. He is an England U21 international who has 7 appearances for Leeds.
Interestingly, the youngster was not among the host of academy players Leeds manager Jesse Marsch drafted for the Carabao Cup loss to Wolves last week. He made the bench for the first six matches but has not been involved with the first team since the first week of September.
Drameh spent the second half of last season on loan with Cardiff where he made 22 appearances with 3 assists. His performances earned him the Player of the Season award despite only joining in January.
One caveat with signing the 20-year-old is that he wants to play first-team football. He said Wales online at the end of May that he would consider leaving Leeds if he was not guaranteed to play in the first team this season. His wish was not granted, with Marsch adding Rasmus Kristensen over the summer.
If Newcastle move for him, he may not meet the need for right-back cover but could be sent out on loan for the second half of the season like last year. Drameh’s contract expires in 2024 and, for the right price, could be a very solid addition to the ranks.
