Mark Douglas has revealed some insight into the Tyneside club's transfer pursuit of former Burnley ace Jeff Hendrick.

According to a tweet from the journalist, he understands that the Magpies are "pushing" to sign Hendrick as a free agent and sources close to the deal are "hopeful" that a deal can be finalised in the summer window.

This comes after a recent report stated that the Magpies look set to sign him, so all signs look to be pointing at Hendrick playing his football at St. James' Park in the 2020/21 season. Indeed, the central midfield player is now available on a free transfer after failing to agree on a new deal with Sean Dyche's Clarets.

With no transfer fee to pay, the potential capture of Hendrick may well be a decent bit of business for Steve Bruce's side. Across the last four campaigns, the 28-year old has played in 122 games in the Premier League, scoring nine goals and providing five assists, as per Transfermarkt.

Indeed, he has plenty of experience in the top flight behind him, which may prove useful for the upcoming term.

Hendrick is also a well-established senior international, as he has played in 54 matches for his native Republic of Ireland since his debut back in 2013 under Giovanni Trapattoni, netting twice (via Transfermarkt).

The midfielder would provide some healthy competition for the likes of Isaac Hayden, Jonjo Shelvey and Sean Longstaff in the middle of the park, and so Newcastle should maybe look to pounce soon before any other clubs come in for him.

Geordies, would Hendrick be a good signing for Newcastle? Comment below with your views!