Newcastle United’s Joelinton has become the latest footballer to be targeted by burglars.
“Three men” entered his home as he watched his team play Manchester City in the Premier League at St James’ Park on Saturday evening, the Brazilian midfielder told Northumbria Police.
He “immediately” reported his concerns after getting an alert on his phone, the force said.
Officers were sent to the property on Runnymede Road in Darras Hall, northwest of Newcastle, after being called shortly before 7.30pm.
Those “alleged to be involved” had fled, police added.
Shortly before the turn of the year, burglars reportedly made off with £1m worth of jewellery and watches after raiding the home of Man City and England midfielder Jack Grealish.
Thieves targeted his Cheshire mansion as he played for the Premier League champions at Everton’s Goodison Park in Liverpool.
Members of Grealish‘s family and his fiancee, Sasha Atwood, were watching the televised match at the property when they heard a disturbance, The Sun newspaper reported.
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Joelinton is currently sidelined with a thigh injury which is expected to keep him out until next month.
A Northumbria Police spokesperson said: “Shortly before 7.30pm yesterday (Saturday) police received a call from a concerned homeowner who reported that three men were inside their home on Runnymede Road in Darras Hall.
“Thankfully the homeowner was not home but had received a security alert on their phone and immediately reported concerns to police.
“Police were deployed to the scene. However, those alleged to be involved had fled.
“Enquiries remain ongoing.”
