Report: Carolina Panthers' Cam Newton close to signing new contract

Cam Newton is on the verge of agreeing a new long-term deal with the Carolina Panthers, according to a report.

The 26-year-old has been a solid player for the NFC South side at the quarterback position since he was selected with the first overall pick in the 2011 Draft.

The Panthers ensured his stay for the 2015 season by exercising the fifth-year option on his contract last year, but are now close to sealing his long-term future at the club.

Newton will sign a six-year deal worth more than $100m (£65.7m) to keep him with Ron Rivera's men until the end of the 2020 season, reports NFL Network.

The 26-year-old has thrown for 14,426 yards and 82 touchdowns to 54 interceptions along with 2,571 rushing yards and 33 touchdowns in his four years in the NFL.