Luuk De Jong: Wanted by Newcastle

We understand Newcastle owner Mike Ashley is willing to sanction up to four deals during the January window, and we can confirm that a striker is very much in the Magpies' sights and their interest in De Jong is strong.

De Jong is currently with German side Borussia Monchengladbach, who paid more than £12million for him in 2012, but his move to the Bundesliga has not been a success.

Newcastle are now ready to bring him to England on an initial loan and it is our understanding they are confident of securing his signature.

De Jong is not the only attacking player in their sights as our sources have confirmed they have a firm interest in Montpellier midfielder Remy Cabella.

The 23-year-old, who likes to play in the 'hole', is understood to be keen on making the switch to Tyneside and increase the already sizeable French contingent at St James' Park.

Talks between the two clubs are expected next week once their president returns from his holidays but, having signed Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa, Newcastle know their management well and are hopeful of brokering a deal - although as ever with Ashley he will not pay over the odds for any player.

With attacking arrivals, Papiss Cisse has been linked with a move away from the club, but Newcastle sources have told us that they are not looking to let 'any' first-team players leave this month, which also includes Yohan Cabaye.