Newcastle made an abortive attempted to sign Kilgallon in thelast transfer window, and Hughton is weighing up another move in January, with the 25-year-old out of contract in the summer, and seemingly no nearer agreeing a fresh deal at Bramall Lane.

Kilgallon is partnered in defence by experienced campaigner Chris Morgan, yet Newcastle's Monday night opponents side have shipped 10 goals in their last three games.

Hughton, however, isn't fooled by their recent showing in the Championship, a run of six games without a win.

"They've got Kilgallon and, of course, Morgan. They're two very tough and experienced players," Hughton told the Gazette.

Meanwhile, Kilgallon remains in dispute with Sheffield United, having rejected a fresh offer earlier this month.

The former Leeds United man was understood to have been close to joining Newcastle in August, only for owner Mike Ashley to pull the plug on a series of incoming and outgoing deals at the last minute.

Kilgallon's manager Kevin Blackwell has accused his agent of "holding a gun" to his head in negotiations.

And the player could be allowed tow leave in January if it becomes clear he is not going to commit his long-term future to the club.

A source close to Kilgallon said: "Matt was well aware of Newcastle's interest in August. He sees them as a big club, and can see himself progressing his career at a place like Newcastle.

"He feels it is only fair to assess each potential move on its own individual merits and with Premier League interest there as well, it would only be fair to consider every option.

"A lot of it depends on how the season pans out, because by January, it'll there for everybody to see if Newcastle are on course for the Premier League again."