'Frightening' Premier League 21-year-old left out of latest squad amid reports Newcastle want to sign him

By Giuseppe Labellarte

Newcastle United have been linked with Leeds United full-back Cody Drameh in recent weeks.

Fabrizio Romano recently told the Here We Go podcast – via GiveMeSport – that the Magpies are still interested in the Whites ace.

Dean Jones also feels Drameh leaving Leeds and linking up with Newcastle is a possibility.

When asked about the possibility of the Magpies signing Drameh in January, Jones told GiveMeSport: “They do like him, so it’s plausible that it opens up.

“I wouldn’t say it’s the absolute priority, but we’ll see.”

Drameh has been struggling for game time at Leeds, hence the emergence of links with the likes of Newcastle.

He spent the second half of last season on loan at Cardiff, but decided to fight for his place at Elland Road this term.

However, the 21-year-old hasn’t managed to oust Rasmus Kristensen or Luke Ayling in the pecking order.

On Wednesday, Drameh didn’t even make the matchday squad for Leeds’ Premier League meeting with Manchester City.

This is despite Marsch reiterating that the youngster is a valued member of the squad with a future at Elland Road.

‘May end up pushing for another move away’

Leeds Live mentioned the latest twist in the ‘Drameh drama’ as one of their five key talking points from the 3-1 loss.

‘Last week, Marsch gave the clearest sign yet Cody Drameh may need to be imminently accommodated in the Leeds team on a semi-regular basis, let alone at a loan outfit,’ they began.

‘And yet the 21-year-old was left out of the squad entirely last night.

‘Nobody is saying Marsch has an easy solution with three right-backs justifiably competing for minutes in one slot, but if his Drameh comments were serious he has to at least get him on the bench.

‘If the former Fulham man fails to play a part in any of the coming league games, it’s easy to see why he may end up pushing for another move away.

‘Even sanctioning a loan exit for Drameh is not without its difficulties.

‘With a contract expiring in 18 months and little prospect of a new deal being agreed right now, Leeds would risk losing the full-back for little or nothing in 2023 or 2024.’

Leeds’ loss could be Newcastle’s gain

Newcastle will no doubt look to bolster their ranks further in the coming weeks as they look to kick on and maybe seal a European place.

Drameh, a ‘frightening‘ talent who somehow continues to struggle for minutes, would be a great shout for Eddie Howe and his Magpies.

He’s unlikely to cost much due to his contract situation, and he’s a player with plenty of potential, a high ceiling and a high potential resale value.