Transfer guru Graeme Bailey doesn't believe Newcastle United are looking to sign Sander Berge.

The Lowdown: Newcastle looking for a midfielder

Newcastle have perhaps been taken slightly by surprise for the second time this transfer window by Nottingham Forest, who have moved quickly to sign Jonjo Shelvey, who was in the final few months of his contract.

Of course, Forest have already got one former Newcastle player on their books in the form of Chris Wood, which saw the Magpies move for Anthony Gordon - and now Shelvey looks set to leave, they may be in the market for a new midfielder.

The Magpies have been linked with two standout names following the Shelvey news, with both Conor Gallagher and Berge being tipped as players of interest, although both would only be loan options.

The Latest: Berge not on the radar

Despite the reports suggesting Newcastle want Berge, Bailey has claimed on the Loaded Mag YouTube channel that Newcastle aren't in the race for the Norwegian, with Fulham in pole position as it stands.

He said: "I haven't heard Newcastle in any of the conversations I've had. Fulham made contact with his people earlier in the week; they're very much in pole position for him."

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The Verdict: Ashworth could land a bargain

While Bailey hasn't heard of anything from his contacts about Berge, a lot of other outlets are suggesting that he is indeed a player Newcastle are keen on if they can strike up a loan deal.

It has been reported that Fulham are looking to sign Berge on a permanent basis this month for around £20m, although Newcastle's ability to offer the chance of silverware and a top-four finish this season could turn his head towards Tyneside.

Newcastle are said to be open to signing Berge on loan with an obligation to buy, which would allow them to sign a 'Rolls-Royce' of a player with Premier League and Champions League experience for a very low fee, which would be a masterstroke from Dan Ashworth.