Germany U21 defender Karim Coulibaly has been linked with Newcastle(Image: Getty Images)

Germany Under-21 international defender Karim Coulibaly is preparing to leave Werder Bremen this summer, with Newcastle United said to be one of FIVE clubs chasing the 18-year-old.

Coulibaly has emerged as a hot property in the Bundesliga this season, making 22 appearances for the German side in this his breakthrough campaign.

The centre-back has also graduated to the Germany U21 set-up this year, making his first appearances for his country, featuring against Northern Ireland in the recent international fixtures.

Reports in Germany suggest five clubs are keen on the defender this summer, with Newcastle joined by Chelsea, Napoli, Marseille and Paris Saint-Germain in following his progress.

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Now football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has revealed the youngster will soon make a decision on where he will play next season.

"Big race started to sign Werder Bremen 18 year old centre back Karim Coulibaly in the summer," he posted on social media.