Last updated on .From the section Football

Newcastle manager Alan Pardew has confirmed that the club are close to signing defender Mathieu Debuchy from Lille.

The Magpies were linked with the French international right-back, 27, during the summer following his performances at Euro 2012.

And Debuchy was in the stands at St James' Park

Pardew said: "It's just a question of the medical and a few details."

Newcastle were without first-choice right-back Danny Simpson against Everton, with utility man James Perch filling in.

Simpson, whose contract expires in the summer, is set to be out for three or four games with a broken toe. external-link

Pardew said: "That position is a key position for us that we have looked to strengthen, and hopefully Debuchy's quality and experience will be much needed.

"Because that is what we missed against Everton. Just a little bit more quality, a bit more experience in key moments."

Newcastle signed midfielder Yohan Cabaye from Lille in June 2011.

Debuchy played in all four of his country's games at Euro 2012 and has 13 senior caps.