AS Roma fullback Ashley Cole is being linked with Newcastle United.

Former Chelsea left-back Cole, 34, has endured a torrid time in Italy and wants to return to the Premier League, says the Daily Star Sunday.

New Toon boss Steve McClaren would be willing to take the ex-England defender, who has a year left on his Roma contract, to St James' Park to bolster his rearguard – possibly on a season-long deal.

Cole has also been linked with a move to MLS this summer.