Newcastle United target Barnsley's Jacob Butterfield

Newcastle United are ready to table a bid for Barnsley youngster Jacob Butterfield.

Magpies boss Alan Pardew is willing to shell out £2m on the 21-year-old midfielder, according to The Mirror.

Butterfield, who has refused to sign a new contract with the Championship side, will be a free agent this summer, but Newcastle must still pay a transfer fee because of his age.

The report cites sources close to the player claiming that Barnsley have given him permission to attend a medical at St James' Park.

Butterfield's season ended prematurely due to a torn cruciate ligament. Newcastle are expected to take over his rehabilitation ahead of next season.