Newcastle United news: Townsend stumbling block, Saivet opens up

Tottenham Hotspur are demaning £14million for the winger, who will be allowed to leave White Hart Lane this month only if the price is right.

United are yet to meet the club's valuation, and a loan with a view to a permanent move has also been mooted.

However, Tottenham's preference is a straight sale.

Newcastle, also keen on West Bromwich Albion striker Saido Berahino, have already signed Jonjo Shelvey and Henri Saivet in this month's transfer window.

And Saivet has revealed the role forgotten Newcastle winger Gabriel Obertan played in his decision to join the club.

Meanwhile, defender Steven Taylor is nearing a comeback from a four-month lay-off ahead of Saturday's game against Watford at Vicarage Road.

Newcastle dropped back into the relegation zone last night.

Swansea City's 1-0 win over Watford at the Liberty Stadium means United are again in 18th place.