NEWCASTLE are reportedly planning a double swoop on Marseille ace Boubacar Kamara and Fulham star Tosin Adarabioyo in a bid to shore up their defence.
The Magpies’ leaky back-four have let in a staggering 37 goals in just 17 Premier League games this season – the worst defensive record in the division.
Eddie Howe’s troops’ poor defending has seen them plummet to joint-bottom of the Prem table with Norwich.
The Toon’s plight worsened midweek after they were thumped 3-1 by a rampant Liverpool.
And according to The Times, the Tyneside club have identified Kamara and Tosin as the duo that can add some much-needed steel to their back-line.
Versatile former Chelsea target Kamara can play as a centre-back or as holding midfielder.
The Blues were keen on signing the 22-year-old from Marseille’s youth team when he was just 16 but he opted to stay with the Ligue 1 side.
Since then, Kamara’s gone on to become a regular in Marseille’s first team and also within France’s Under-21 setup.
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Meanwhile, 6ft 5in defensive rock Tosin has also been making a name for himself at Fulham.
He joined the Cottagers from Manchester City last October and instantly became a favourite amongst the club’s fans.
However, Newcatle will have to fend off competition from Barcelona who also have their eyes on Kamara – whose contract is up in the summer.
And the Times claim Kamara is ready for a new challenge away from Marseille, meaning the Toon can potentially sign him for cheaper than his current market price as the Ligue 1 side don’t want to lose him for free at the end of the season.
Despite being flush with cash since new owners took over, Newcastle have struggled to attract new talent.
They’ve recruited ex-Celtic head of football operations Nick Hammond as a temporary consultant ahead of the January transfer window.
The Magpies will hope Hammond’s transfer expertise can help them wrap up some signings next month.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk