Leeds United boss ‘hopeful’ Newcastle United target will make transfer U-turn

Leeds United manager Jesse Marsch has given an insight into the future of reported Newcastle United transfer target Cody Drameh.

The Magpies are reportedly keen to add a young right-back to their squad to provide cover to Kieran Trippier as Sweden international Emil Krafth continues his comeback from long-term injury and Javier Manquillo heads into the final 18 months on his current deal.

United scouts are believed to have watched several potential additions around Europe, with Real Valladolid’s Ivan Fresneda and Lyon star Malo Gusto both linked with a move to Tyneside in recent weeks. Two domestic options have also been touted in the media with West Ham United’s Harrison Ashby and Leeds youngster Drameh both said to be under consideration within the hierachy at St James Park.

The latter has experienced an underwhelming season at Elland Road after failing to build on the momentum of what was an impressive loan spell at Championship club Cardiff City during the second half of last season. Drameh has been restricted to just two senior appearances as he started a 5-2 Premier League defeat against Brentford in September just a week after helping Jesse Marsch’s side to a 3-1 Carabao Cup win against Barnsley.

The likes of Borussia Dortmund, Lille and Bayer Leverkusen have also been linked with a move for the 21-year-old but Leeds manager Marsch has insisted he is a keen admirer of Dramah and is hopefully he will continue to be part of his plans when the Janaury transfer window closes.

Speaking ahead of the trip to Tyneside, Marsch said: "So, we had Cody in (training) at the end of last year (following his loan at Cardiff). And he wasn't convinced that this was going to be the right place for him to come back.

“And then he came into pre-season, and he's kind of worked through the year, played with the 21s a lot. And I think the idea of being here has grown on him a lot. Maybe it could have gone differently if that feeling was there from the beginning, but we're in a good place now with Cody and I like him a lot.”