Newcastle United are reportedly now eyeing up a move to sign Moussa Dembele in the January transfer window.

The Lowdown: Wilson replacement needed

With the recent news that Callum Wilson could be out injured for longer than the original six weeks thought, the St. James' Park faithful are now in desperate need of an able deputy to fill in for him, and then potentially partner him when he comes back.

Gabriel Barbosa and Edin Dzeko are just two names that have been mentioned as possible new arrivals in the North East, as the next few weeks are set to be very busy ones for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) consortium.

The reliable Mark Douglas has confirmed the Magpies are seeking a new centre-back and striker, and there has now been a development on the latter.

The Latest: Dembele eyed

As per Foot Mercato journalist and transfer expert Santi Aouna, Dembele is 'one of the options' who is currently being studied by the Tyneside outfit, and he is 'liked' by both Nick Hammond and Eddie Howe.

However, no contact has been made with Lyon at this moment in time, although a bid has not been ruled out.

The Verdict: Smart move

Signing up Dembele would certainly be a smart move by the Magpies, as he can temporarily fill the void left by Wilson on the pitch, before potentially becoming his strike partner once he is back fit.

The Frenchman has been a lethal finisher wherever he has been, scoring no fewer than 154 goals in total for both club and country combined at youth and senior levels, and by helping Atletico Madrid win the La Liga title last season, he has that extra winning mentality that will be vital if the Toon are to pick up enough wins to get them out of the relegation zone.

Nonetheless, at 25 years of age, Dembele still has room for improvement, and so his true potential can be fulfilled at NUFC should they sign him.

In other news, find out which £40.5m-rated 'beast' Newcastle are now targeting here!