Newcastle allow Nigerian defender Udoka Chima to train with them as they consider signing him in the summer

ENGLISH Premier league giants Newcastle United are looking to sign Italian-born Nigerian centerback Udoka Chima during the summer transfer window in a bid to shore up their defence next season after a dismal 2020/21 campaign.

Currently lying in 16th place in the 20-team table with two games to go, Newcastle have managed to avoid relegation after a disappointing season. In 36 games, Newcastle conceded a total of 36 goals, giving it the third worst record in the league behind West Bromwich Albion who let in 70 and Southampton who shipped 63 goals.

Hoping for a better 2021/22 season, Newcastle have begun searching for defenders to shore up their backline and 19 year old Chima is one of the players in the club's sights. Currently a free agent, Chima has been on the lookout for a new club following his release by Burnley at the end of the 2019/20 season.

Already, Newcastle have invited the teenager to begin training with its youth team during the pre-season with a view to offering him a contract. However, Primeira Liga giants Benfica are also mulling over offering him a contract after he impressed the youth team coaches while undergoing trial at the club's training centre.

At the invitation of Benfica's youth team football director, Bruno Maruta, Chima trained with the team from April 29 to May 9. Sporting de Braga are also said to be in the mix to sign the 19-year-old defender.