Rafa Benitez is set to bring a Republic of Ireland global to St James Park.
Advertisement
Newcastle United have met the £5million release clause in the contract of Aston Villa defender Ciaran Clark.
Clark can play in various positions – left-back, defensive midfield, as well as centre of defence where he normally operates. Quoted in the Birmingham Mail, Villa manager Roberto Di Matteo said: “Ciaran is a Villa man, a Villa boy, he has pledged his future to us”.
He is now preparing for the Sky Bet Championship season after suffering relegation with Villa in May.
Both Hull City and Aston Villa are trying to convince both players to stay put, but Newcastle are confident of getting both players signed.
A number of clubs, including Real Madrid and Juventus, are weighing up moves for £35million-rated Sissoko, who was given an extended break by Benitez after his involvement at Euro 2016 with finalists France.
Sky sources understand United have triggered the £4.5m release clause of the midfielder with a fee having been agreed between the two clubs.
However, the Championship club, also relegated last season, is now braced for the departure of 26-year-old Clark, who is also a target for West Bromwich Albion.
Advertisement
Newcastle open their Championship campaign on Friday at Fulham, live onSky Sports 1 HD from 7pm.
