Former Newcastle United defender Steve Howey has told The Transfer Tavern in an exclusive interview that Chelsea's Billy Gilmour would be an "excellent signing" for his old side this summer.

This comes amid talk of Newcastle being interested in Gilmour, with The Northern Echo recently reporting that the Magpies will look to bring the 19-year-old Champions League winner in on loan.

Gilmour barely featured for Chelsea in the recently concluded Premier League season, though he was handed a rare start towards the end of the campaign in a 2-1 win over Manchester City.

It means some time away from Stamford Bridge may be necessary, with St. James' Park emerging as a possible destination for the Scottish midfielder.

When asked by TT if he would like to see Gilmour at Newcastle, Howey said:

"What I've seen of him, very, very good. I think a lot of clubs will look at him. I think he will be an excellent signing in midfield."

Going to Newcastle on loan could be a good move for Gilmour, who recently won his first senior cap for Scotland.

Another young midfielder, Arsenal's Joe Willock, really thrived during his recent spell there, going on an incredible goalscoring run that saw him register seven goals in seven consecutive league games.