Newcastle United are reportedly considering loan offers for Niall Brookwell ahead of the January transfer window.

The Lowdown: U21 captain

Brookwell recently captained the U21 side in their 2-0 loss away at League One Barnsley in the Papa John's Trophy, and was rated as their best performer by SofaScore.

The 20-year-old won six of his duels in total, the joint-most of any of his teammates, while he also recorded a team-high five clearances, two tackles and one interception in a spirited individual display.

The Latest: Offers considered

As per Newcastle World, the St. James' Park outfit are considering loaning out Brookwell in January, with many EFL, National League and Scottish Championship clubs thought to be lining up offers.

He penned a one-year extension to his initial two-year deal last summer, but will be out of contract at the end of the season, so the North East club now need to decide whether to extend his deal again or let him go.

The Verdict: Loan needed

Brookwell needs to be tested in senior football in order to help the Tynesiders decide whether they should extend his contract.

The Englishman has been a mainstay in the U21 side, and the fact that he captained the team recently shows his character and leadership qualities.

However, at 20 years of age, this is a crucial point in Brookwell's career in terms of his development, and so the Magpies must decide whether he is good enough to stay in the hope that he will eventually break into the first-team squad, or whether it is time to let him leave for good.

Incidentally, he shares the same agent as Kieran Trippier and Chris Wood, who both secured moves to the Toon last January, so this could help him find the right club to go out on loan to, and hopefully impress enough to be called back by Eddie Howe.