Report: Leeds want 29-year-old again after talks last season

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Leeds United are amongst the Premier League sides keen on signing Omar Colley during the January transfer window, with TEAMtalk suggesting that Newcastle United and Everton also want the centre-back.

Sampdoria are open to selling the 29-year-old next month. He is set to be away on international duty in the new year, with Gambia competing in the Africa Cup of Nations.

However, his admirers are still interested in signing him when the window opens. It is claimed by TEAMtalk that Leeds, Newcastle and Everton are all keen. The Whites held talks to sign Colley last season having been linked for some time.

Leeds, of course, are dealing with a scarcely-believable injury crisis this term. And one of the players that they have lost to injury is captain Liam Cooper. Colley is a left-footer, so could potentially take that spot should he make the switch to Elland Road.

Robin Koch has only just returned from several months on the sidelines. And in truth, it is hard to imagine that he would have played any part against Arsenal last weekend had Marcelo Bielsa had other options.

Diego Llorente was unavailable. And Pascal Struijk is dealing with a knock. Luke Ayling started alongside Koch against Arsenal.

Leeds after one of Serie A’s best-performing defenders in Omar Colley

Colley meanwhile, has played in all but one of Sampdoria’s Serie A fixtures this term. The only game he missed came after he received his fifth yellow card of the campaign.

His numbers are hugely impressive. According to FB Ref, he has made 64 interceptions this season. Only Gleison Bremer has managed more in Italy’s top flight. It is the same two players at the top of the list for clearances.

Only nine players in the league have won more tackles. He has won 24 challenges so far.

It would perhaps be a surprise if Leeds were willing to sign a player in January who will not be available immediately. But Colley’s record this term suggests that he would be a very decent addition if a move did take place.