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Newcastle United could be ready to offload Mike Williamson in the opening few days of the January window.

Sky Bet Championship side Wolverhampton Wanderers want to sign the centre-back on a permanent basis after he impressed on a recent loan at Molineux.

And it is unlikely that Newcastle will stand in his way of making the switch to Wolves with his contract set to run out in six months.

At 32, United will not offer him a new deal and his time at St James’ Park has run its course.

Williamson made seven appearances for Kenny Jackett’s side earlier this season, but was recalled after injuries mounted up at the club’s Benton base.

The centre-back was in consideration to start against Liverpool before picking up a hamstring injury.

But Newcastle are now looking to the future and Williamson’s exit could pave the way for new faces next month.

United do not feel they are short on defensive cover with Chancel Mbemba, Fabricio Coloccini and the soon-to-be-fit-again Steven Taylor all set to battle it out for places next year.

Youngster Jamie Sterry has also stepped up to the first-team squad in recent weeks too, while Paul Dummett can also operate in the heart of defence.

Meanwhile, United would also be prepared to move on Shane Ferguson, with Millwall interested in signing the Northern Ireland international.

But it is believed the Londoners feel his wages at Newcastle don’t fit into their pay structure.