Mark Douglas has claimed Hamza Choudhury is now 'keen' on a move to Newcastle United before the summer transfer window ends.

The Lowdown: Down to the wire

Writing in a piece for Newcastle World, Liam Kennedy has claimed that the St. James' Park faithful's chase for Choudhury is set to go down to the wire.

They are reportedly a long-term admirer of the Leicester City ace, and are keen to strike a deal before the deadline hits.

However, that possibility currently hangs in the balance at the moment, as the North East club would prefer a loan move, likely with an obligation to buy, while Brendan Rodgers' team would like to sell him permanently.

The Latest: Choudhury 'keen'

Writing in his latest piece for The Chronicle, Douglas has claimed that Choudhury is now 'keen' on a move to Tyneside on loan, if a deal can be struck before the window shuts on Tuesday night.

There is reportedly a 'willingness' from both sides to sort out the move, but ultimately it will come down to finances.

The Verdict: Sign

Given that Joe Willock is the only player to have signed for Steve Bruce's side on a permanent deal from Arsenal, and even he was on loan at the Magpies from January onwards last season anyway, they simply must get some extra bodies through the door in the next couple of days.

Choudhury has plenty of experience of playing in the Premier League, and would offer Bruce another handy option in the middle of the park.

He is a good age at 23, and being English, would help fill the homegrown quota, especially given that Matty Longstaff has recently left to join Aberdeen on loan for the rest of the campaign.

In other news, find out whose display against Southampton was criticised here!