Newcastle are weighing up a potential summer bid for Como winger Assane Diao, according to reports in the Italian media.
The Senegalese international only moved to Italy from Real Betis for €12m in January.
However, he has already made a great impression, having scored 5 goals in his first 12 appearances.
Most Read on Newcastle United News
Tutto Juve reports that Diao has attracted the attention of the Magpies, in addition to Liverpool and Manchester United, who are all “thinking” about making an offer for the 19-year-old when the transfer window opens.
Diao has already received a lot of praise
Speaking about the winger’s early performances for Como in February, former Roma and Real Madrid striker Antonio Cassano said the sky is the limited for the teenager:
“I tip my hat to this player. I didn’t know much about him before. He’s fantastic – one of those players that makes defenders nervous, while also being diligent in defense. In two or three years, he could reach astonishing heights.”
Newcastle are keen to strengthen their options on the right flank
Although Jacob Murphy has stood up to the plate admirably over the past year or so, manager Eddie Howe has been keen on signing an upgrade for quite some time.
The likes of Southampton’s Tyler Dibling, Chelsea’s Noni Madueke, PSV Eindhoven’s Johan Bakayoko, Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo and Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo have all been mentioned as potential targets.
However, their price tags are pretty steep and it could be argued that Diao has a higher ceiling than some of those players.
Undoubtedly, Como would want to make a sizeable profit on the winger if they decided to sell him at the end of the season, but he would likely be an affordable option for the Magpies.
If you would like to read more stories like this, visit our Newcastle United transfer news page