AS Roma defender Ashley Cole reportedly turned down the opportunity to return to the Premier League by knocking back an offer from Newcastle United on deadline day.

Italian publication Gazzetta dello Sport claims Newcastle approached the Serie A outfit about a potential deal for Cole, only for the 34-year-old left-back to turn down the proposal.

Cole made only 11 league appearances for Roma last season and has been left out of their 21-man squad for the Champions League, sparking speculation he would look to leave the Italian capital before the summer transfer window closed.

The former Chelsea defender is now expected look to secure a move elsewhere when the window reopens in January.