Jan Ziółkowski: Newcastle United interested in signing defender, send transfer officials

Jan Ziółkowski is slowly emerging as a possible target for Newcastle United, having seen his game time dry up at AS Roma.

The Polish defender has featured for only 40 minutes since February, despite having done well regularly before that. He’s played 14 times in Serie A, featuring a total of eight times in the Europa League as well.

At one point, it felt like he was winning over Gian Piero Gasperini Ziółkowski took a while to adjust but he soon slotted in well to the Italian’s trademark back three.

His situation is now attracting attention from Newcastle United, who have already sent officials to keep an eye on the centre-back.

Newcastle United transfer interest ahead of summer

Sport.pl report that if the 20-year-old’s situation doesn’t change, there is every chance he can leave Roma in the summer.

The outlet note how well he has progressed this season, despite few expecting him to make a mark. He impressed quite a bit when Evan Ndicka was at the African Cup of Nations but game time didn’t prove to be temporary at that point. Even with the Ivorian, the youngster did enough to win over fans.

Because of that, he has also become part of the Poland national team, which shows how his stock has surely risen.

If things don’t change, a move to Newcastle United could be possible. Scouts from the Magpies have watched him ‘several times’ and there is also interest from Italy, France and the Netherlands.

A source told Sport: “We’re considering every step that will lead to Janek playing. Including leaving.”

The same source also said that Ziółkowski is training well but this hasn’t led to enough game time.

“He hasn’t displeased the coach. He’s training very well, has the best performance results of his career, and has also put in a lot of physical work.”

Our take: Maybe a push for more game time

Sport Witness have already covered Newcastle United’s interest in Daniele Ghilardi. So if Eddie Howe’s side have kept an eye on the Italian, it won’t be a surprise if Ziółkowski has also caught their eye. That isn’t a shock because adapting quickly to Gasperini’s ideas at a young age is quite difficult.

Even if the Magpies like him, this  may be an attempt to force through more game time.

For now, Newcastle United should continue to keep a close eye on the youngster and his development. He clearly has promise, even if a move to England might be too early for him. How he furthers his development in the next few months can dictate everything about his future.