Dimarco and Kumbedi are the latest names in the frame

Newcastle United are reportedly interested in Inter Milan left-back Federico Dimarco and Lyon right-back Sael Kumbedi, according to Jacque Talbot of Football Transfers and Simon Jones of Mail Online, respectively.

Dimarco's name has been in the frame for a long while now, with NUFC's interest in him initially reported by InterLive back in early March when the Kieran Tierney rumours surfaced. This is the first time contact between Newcastle and Inter has been mooted, though, with Talbot stating that club representatives have now approached the Milan club to find out about an asking price.

Talks are said to be at a very early stage, but Dimarco's quality and versatility are said to appeal. Primarily a left wing-back, the Italian is also extremely comfortable in a four-man defence and can play on the left side of a three-man backline, or even as a left midfielder. Howe has repeatedly stressed the importance of versatility in interviews and press conferences, which adds some credence to the rumour.

Dimarco is 25, quite diminutive at 5'8", and is under contract until 2026 having been with Inter since 2018. A very attacking fullback with excellent dribbling, shooting, and set-piece quality, the Milan native would be a completely different option to Dan Burn in our defence. He could potentially be as exciting a signing as Sandro Tonali, having become an Italy regular since making his debut for the Azzurri in June 2022.

Here's a taste of what he could bring if he signed:

Kumbedi has been earmarked as a backup option to other targets, according to Jones writing in the Mail. The 18-year-old right-back, also very capable of playing on the opposite flank, enjoyed a breakthrough 2022/23 season in Ligue 1, featuring 20 times for Lyon.

He is the same height as Dimarco (5'8") and has a similar attacking profile, but is obviously a lot more raw given his age. He enjoys taking opponents on, even in his own box and has an incredible burst of speed over a few yards.

Here's Kumbedi's highlight reel:

He certainly looks exciting, but will apparently only be pursued if the club is unable to come to terms with Southampton on a deal for Tino Livramento.