Report: Newcastle beating Leeds in race to sign Facundo Colidio

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Sky Italy journalist Gianluca Di Marzio has claimed Newcastle are now beating Leeds United in the race to sign Inter Milan striker Facundo Colidio, after reports emerged earlier on Friday morning.

FC Inter News claimed prior to Di Marzio’s report that both Newcastle and Leeds were keen on the 19-year-old Inter striker, who is yet to make a senior appearance for Inter Milan thus far.

However, he does have nine Argentina Under-20 caps and has scored three goals – as well as appearing on Inter’s bench in three Serie A matches last season. He has 16 goals in 55 games for Inter’s second string.

Now, Di Marzio has claimed that Newcastle are set to strike a loan-to-buy deal for Colidio, with the previous report claiming Inter value Colidio between £7.3million and £9.2million. The permanent clause remains to be seen.

Leeds remain interested, as per Di Marzio, but have been made to wait in the wings with Newcastle in pole position to land the Argentine striker. Newcastle will make a decision ‘in the coming hours’ whether to accept Inter’s terms.

TBR’s view – Colidio gives Newcastle exciting cover

Joelinton has obviously been brought in at St. James’ Park to lead the line, the fact he has been handed Alan Shearer’s iconic number nine shirt is proof of that.

But with Joselu returning to Spain, joining Deportivo La Coruna, the Toon need another striker to act as cover for the new Brazilian signing – and one with enough quality to replace him if he is injured, or struggling.

Colidio is exciting. A young South American star, with plenty of goals for his country at youth level and Inter’s second string. He has flair, speed, strength – the lot. He can play out wide and up front. On loan, he is a very good signing.