Report says Newcastle are interested in Bamba Dieng, but he’d be a risk – opinion

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Reports from RMC Sport state that Newcastle United are one of multiple Premier League clubs interested in Marseille forward Bamba Dieng.

West Ham, Crystal Palace and relegation rivals Burnley are also named by the French outlet.

Dieng is currently at the Africa Cup of Nations with Senegal and is looking to be offloaded by Marseille. It is reported that the Ligue 1 side want at least £8.3million for the forward.

The Toon Army are still pushing to add new players before the transfer window shuts on January 31st. Dieng is one of many players linked with a move to St James’ Park.

And RMC Sport state that Marseille are already eyeing up a replacement, with former Premier League winger Gerard Deulofeu linked.

With only one season in Ligue 1 under his belt, Dieng has impressed

Dieng joined Marseille last summer and has already impressed. Last season he netted four goals in 14 appearances. Marseille’s main striker Arkadiusz Milik was out injured and Dieng filled in his position effectively.

The 21-year-old is currently on international duty, and his made his mark at the AFCON. Dieng scored a late goal as Senegal beat Cape Verde 2-0 in their Round of 16 match. They now progress to the quarter finals of the tournament.

However, considering Newcastle’s current predicament it would be quite the gamble to bring in Dieng. The Magpies are in a relegation battle – it would be asking a lot of a still relatively unproven forward to star in the Premier League.

Perhaps it’s an option to consider next season when Newcastle can really add some depth to their forward selection – providing we stay up, of course.

Dieng certainly seems like a player for the future and the Magpies should keep an eye on him. As for now, if they are to invest in another forward, they need a more proven track record.

On top of that, other positions such as defence and midfield need to be the priority. We’re still in a relegation battle and going down could badly damage hopes of bringing in top players next summer.