Italian giants AS Roma are lining up a January swoop for Newcastle’s Danny Simpson, according to talkSPORT.

The Premier League defender has been attracting attention for his off-field antics of late after becoming romantically involved with pop star Tulisa.

However, his performances have not dipped and he has been impressive during his outings in the black and white shirt so far this season.

Despite this, his future appears to be far from certain as manager Alan Pardew continues to openly chase Lille full-back Mathieu Debuchy ahead of a possible winter swoop.

If the Frenchman were to move to the North East, it would likely spell the end of Simpson’s spell at St James’ Park.

This has alerted Roma, who are keen to bolster their defensive options and see the Magpies star as an ideal, affordable addition.

Simpson has had an unorthodox career so far, having played for six separate clubs, despite being only 25.

He started at Manchester United, before moving on loan to Belgian outfit Royal Antwerp.

He then turned out for Sunderland, Ipswich, Blackburn and Newcastle on loan between 2007 and 2010.

The Tyne club decided to take Simpson on a permanent contract, and he has gone on to make over 100 appearances.