Matt Ritchie set for Newcastle medical ahead of transfer from Bournemouth - Sky sources

Rafa Benitez is hoping to bring Matt Ritchie to St James' Park

Bournemouth winger Matt Ritchie will undergo a medical with Newcastle United on Friday, according to Sky sources.

Rafa Benitez is currently looking to reshape his squad ahead of the new Sky Bet Championship season and sees the 26-year-old as a replacement for the outgoing Andros Townsend, who is set to join Crystal Palace.

Ritchie was also wanted by West Ham, but the Hammers cooled their interest after seeing their bid for the Scotland international and forward Callum Wilson rejected by Bournemouth in May.

Benitez is looking to shape his squad ahead of the 2016/17 season

Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe also said the Cherries had no intention of selling Ritchie this summer after turning down West Ham's offer.

Sky sources understand Bournemouth value Ritchie at between £10m and £12m. His current contract at the Vitality Stadium expires in 2018.

Ritchie (centre) missed just one Premier League match for Bournemouth last season

Ritchie joined Bournemouth from Swindon Town in 2013 and played a major role in their promotions from Sky Bet League One and the Sky Bet Championship.

He was an ever-present in their promotion winning campaign to the Premier League, scoring 15 goals in 46 matches.

Richite made 37 appearances for Bournemouth during their debut season in the top-flight and netted four times.