Newcastle United are reportedly eyeing a move for Leeds United youngster, Cody Drameh, although are expected to face competition for the defender's signature.

What's the word?

According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, the Magpies are keeping tabs on the 20-year-old ahead of a potential swoop when the market re-opens in January, albeit with the Premier League outfit set to face rival interest from clubs across Europe.

Writing on Twitter about that interest, the transfer guru revealed: "Cody Drameh, attracting interest as many clubs are keen on signing him in January from Leeds. Borussia Dortmund, Lille and Bayer Leverkusen alongside Newcastle are following the English right back as talent for the future."

This follows a report from the Daily Mail which also claimed that the northeast side are 'tracking' the young Englishman at present, having also been linked with a move for West Ham United starlet Harrison Ashby in recent times.

'Future' of St James' Park

As Romano alluded, Drameh may well be a talent 'for the future' who can go on to be nurtured and developed under Eddie Howe in the coming years, with the St James' Park outfit seemingly chasing a young understudy for undisputed first-choice, Kieran Trippier, at right-back.

With Emil Krafth currently sidelined with an ACL injury and with Javier Manquillo seemingly surplus to requirements - the Spaniard making just two appearances this season - the arrival of the Leeds prospect could well be needed in the New Year, with the exciting talent potentially able to be the long-term heir to 32-year-old, Trippier at the club.

While the England U21 international has been restricted to just two senior appearances at Elland Road this season - as a result of the presence of Rasmus Kristensen and Luke Ayling - the London-born machine notably impressed on loan at Cardiff City last term, providing three assists in 23 games for the Championship outfit.

That form saw the 5 foot 9 star - who has been valued at around £3.5m, as per CIES Football Observatory - swoop two end-of-season awards for the Bluebirds despite only joining the club in January, having been lauded for his "excellent" displays by former boss, Steve Morison.

Something of a "Duracell bunny" down the right flank - in the words of Morison - the energetic and relentless gem seemingly showcased what he could do during that promising temporary stint in Wales, having seen chances limited back in Yorkshire since joining from Fulham in 2020.

The mere fact that the Cottagers academy graduate has caught the eye of notable clubs on the continent is a sign of just what a talent he truly is, with Howe and co needing to act quickly to try and secure Drameh's signature.

He may not provide a instant impact in the short term, although in the long-term Newcastle could well reap the rewards of such an astute investment.