Everton reportedly battling Leeds United and Newcastle United for Serie A centre-back

Everton are reportedly plotting a move for Sampdoria defender Omar Colley.

The Blues are claimed to be keen on the centre-back to bolster their rearguard.

Who is Omar Colley?

Colley is a 29-year-old defender who’s enjoyed a brilliant journey to Serie A.

He came through the ranks in his native Gambia - first at Wallidan before joining Real de Banjul.

Colley’s career then took him to Finland with Kuopion Palloseura and before remaining in Scandinavia with Swedish outfit Djurgården.

It was Belgian giants Genk that gave Colley his big break in 2016 when he completed a switch for a reported €2 million.

In total, he played 54 times for Genk, scoring three goals and garned Europa League experience.

Two years later, Sampdoria swooped for Colley. He’s been a regular for the Genoa-based side since his arrival.

This season, he’s made 19 appearances, with Sampdoria 15th in Serie A.

According to Teamtalk, Everton are one of three clubs who are admirers of Colley.

Leeds United and Newcastle United are also supposedly keen.

Colley’s under contract at Sampdoria until the summer of 2025 so would command a transfer fee.

However, the Italian outfit are said to be willing to do business ‘at the right price’.

Rafa Benitez is fairly well stocked in central defence.

Granted, the Toffees have missed the presence of Yerry Mina in the rearguard this season.

He broke down on his return to injury against Arsenal and has played only seven times in total.

Everton also have Ben Godfrey, Michael Keane, Mason Holgate and Jarrad Branthwaite as options.

Given the financial difficulties at Goodison Park, another substantial fee may not be paid.

Meanwhile, Colley wages likely wouldn’t be cheap and he has little sell-on value at the age of 29.

And the fact he’s heading off to the African Cup of Nations with Gambia means he may not be available for a lot of January.