Newcastle United transfer ‘target’ spends the night on Tyneside ahead of St James’ Park visit

Atalanta have spent the night in Newcastle ahead of their friendly at St James’ Park tonight - with Duvan Zapata in the Italian side’s ranks.

Transfer links to the Colombia international have re-emerged in recent weeks after a January full of speculation.

Reports in Italy have claimed Zapata remains on United’s radar and could be available for around £21million.

Now, there is nothing to suggest the Magpies are currently interested in signing the 31-year-old, though it’s no secret Eddie Howe wants to recruit a striker this summer.

And if Zapata is serious about pursuing a potential move to the Premier League, tonight is his opportunity to catch the eye.

Zapata has spent the nine years of his career in Serie A playing for Napoli, Udinese, Sampdoria and Atalanta.

Despite being hit with injuries last season, the striker still found the net 13 times. In total, he has scored 79 goals in 162 appearances for Atalanta.

Zapata could move on this summer but for now remains at the heart of Gian Piero Gasperini’s plans for next season.

The player’s age could work against him in terms of a switch to Newcastle with Howe understood to be keen on recruiting a younger option.

Nevertheless a good performance tonight would do his chances - if any - no harm.

Howe’s men host the Serie A club before welcoming La Liga outfit Athletic Bilbao to St James’ Park tomorrow afternoon.