Get the latest NUFC transfer and takeover news straight to your inbox for FREE by signing up to our newsletter Subscribe Thank you for subscribing We have more newsletters Show me See our privacy notice Invalid Email

Former Newcastle United winger Gabriel Obertan looks set to sign for Russian Premier League side Anzhi Makhachkala.

The 27-year-old was released by the Magpies in May just weeks before his contract was due to expire.

However, the free agent is now set to sign a two-year deal with Anzhi, according to reports in both France and Russia.

Capped 11 times by France’s Under-21 side, Obertan first moved to England in 2009 when Manchester United signed him from Bordeaux.

Lauded as one of the most promising talents in France, Sir Alex Ferguson was unimpressed by the winger and failed to offer him much gametime.

After just 14 league appearances for the Red Devils, Alan Pardew brought him to Newcastle in a £4million deal during the summer of 2011.

Though there were flashes of promise during his five-year spell on Tyneside, the Frenchman was hampered by fitness problems and often struggled for confidence while at Newcastle.

Rafa Benitez released Obertan and compatriot Sylvain Marveaux - who has since signed for Lorient last month - on May 5.

Last season, Obertan started the campaign well for United, providing an assist for Georginio Wijnaldum against Southampton.

Unfortunately injury struck once again, and Obertan managed just six appearances in all during his final season at St James’ Park.