CBS Sports journalist Ben Jacobs has revealed that Newcastle United are among a number of clubs to have 'scouted' Juventus midfielder Weston McKennie.

The Lowdown: Interest in McKennie

It was reported last week that the St James' Park outfit are 'monitoring' the 24-year-old's situation in Turin and hold an interest ahead of the January transfer window.

Jacobs has added that McKennie is not going to seriously consider his future until after the World Cup in Qatar, but the Old Lady are 'open' to selling him for a transfer fee of £20m or more.

The Latest: McKennie 'scouted' by Newcastle

Taking to Twitter, Jacobs has also revealed that Newcastle are among a number of teams in the Premier League who have now 'scouted' McKennie, but there is 'nothing advanced' between any of his potential suitors at the moment:

"Several Premier League clubs have scouted McKennie, including Newcastle, Leeds, Everton and Arsenal. But none have advanced interest yet. He's a player who could well move to England in January but right now there is nothing advanced from any potential Premier League suitors."

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The Verdict: Get it done

Given the level of competition for McKennie's signature, this is a deal that Newcastle should be looking to get done in January.

The 24-year-old ranks in the 97th percentile for progressive passes received and the 93rd percentile for touches among midfielders in Europe's top five leagues over the past year, and he has a similar playing style to the Tynesiders' own Joelinton (FBRef).

The 6 foot colossus is set to star for the USA in the World Cup, having accumulated 37 senior caps already for his country, scoring nine goals and delivering a further four assists (Transfermarkt).

Interest is likely to soar after the tournament, especially if he and his country do well, so the Toon need to ensure that they are first in line in the New Year when the transfer market reopens.

Also, McKennie shares the same agent as Eddie Howe, which could help to accelerate a transfer.