Newcastle United set for transfer breakthrough

The Gazette understands that Nabil Bentaleb is set to join the injury-hit club on a half-season loan. The former Tottenham Hotspur midfielder, also linked with Crystal Palace, was frozen out at Schalke 04 last year.

The 25-year-old – who was demoted at Schalke late last season for disciplinary reasons – is on Tyneside for a medical.

United manager Steve Bruce – who met owner Mike Ashley for transfer talks last week – wants to strengthen his attacking options in this month’s transfer window. Speaking last week, Bruce said: “He asked how he can help. He met everyone, said hello, talked to players and staff. We sat down and discussed what we’re trying to do. Obviously, he'll back us as much as he can.”

Inter Milan winger Valentino Lazaro is another target for Newcastle.