Newcastle United emerge as frontrunners to land 'invincible' Ivory Coast star in summer transfer window
Newcastle United were reportedly in the market for a centre-back in January, although there was little to no evidence of any movement for any players in any position.
Ahead of the summer, though, it's expected that Newcastle are working hard behind the scenes to go big when the window opens, with several positions in dire need of strengthening.
The Magpies spent around £250 million last summer, and it hasn't worked out too well for them this season, so if they are to do the same again, they need much better planning and preparation. With a sporting director in place this time, it's expected to be a much smoother ride, but only time will tell.
At least rumours are starting already about potential summer targets, with Africa Foot reporting that the Magpies have their sights set on Serie A once again to recruit another central defender.
Newcastle are hoping to pick up another strong defender from Serie A, according to reports
Malick Thiaw came from Serie A and dropped right into Premier League life, and the Magpies are looking to repeat that trick by pursuing Atalanta's Odilon Kossounou.
The 25-year-old centre-back was part of Bayer Leverkusen's 'invincibles' season, where they won the Bundesliga without losing a game before moving to Atalanta, where things haven't gone so well for him.
Kossounou has made 24 appearances in all competitions, but just nine starts this season for the Serie A side, and that is expected to be the driving force behind him looking for a move this summer.
We're not sure how much truth there is in this one, but he could be a good signing
This is another one of those pinch of salt rumours for us by virtue of the fact that it's coming out of Africa rather than Italy or England; however, it's not the first time Newcastle have been linked with Kossounou with the Magpies linked before his move from Leverkusen to Atalanta.
It could be one to keep an eye on, though, as Kossounou has quite a medal collection, having won the Bundesliga, German Cup, German Super Cup, the AFCON and titles in Belgium. He knows how to win.
If there's a deal to be made, Newcastle may be there as he looks to fit the profile we're looking for in terms of age and experience.
