Former BBC pundit Noel Whelan has backed Newcastle United in their alleged pursuit of Luke Shaw in the January transfer window.

The Lowdown: Shaw interest

It was reported last week that the St. James' Park outfit have set their sights on a potential move for Shaw in January.

Manchester United could be 'tempted' by a cut-price deal for the left-back, whose contract at Old Trafford expires in the summer.

The Latest: Whelan backs move

Speaking to Football Insider, Whelan has claimed that Shaw would be an 'exciting' signing for the North East club, adding that his experience would be 'invaluable' and a move would 'make sense':

“It’s one of the positions that Erik ten Hag is pondering over.

“He’s thinking about possibly signing another full-back, he doesn’t know who the best option is.

“I think with the way they did it with Trippier, bringing in that experience and quality – they’ll be happy to repeat that success.

“It’s down to the manager as well. I think if you get him playing under Eddie Howe, he’d become a better player.

“It’d be exciting, it makes sense – and having that kind of experience is invaluable for a club like Newcastle.”

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The Verdict: Smart business?

There will be concerns over Shaw's injury history, but his experience and quality could make his signing a smart piece of business for the Tynesiders come January.

He has amassed 220 appearances for the Red Devils, including playing at the highest level in the UEFA Champions League, and also has 23 caps for the England national team (Transfermarkt).

Matt Targett is seemingly 'frustrated' at being left out of the starting line-up by Eddie Howe lately, with central defender Dan Burn playing ahead of him, and so Shaw could slot straight in at left-back should he sign in January.

Nonetheless, it is scary to think that he is just 27 years of age given how long he has been around with Southampton as well as United, and so the Magpies could be buying a player who has not even hit his prime yet.