Newcastle United 'close in on £10m-rated Joel Matip'

Newcastle United are reportedly closing in on a deal to sign defender Joel Matip from Schalke 04.

News first emerged of the Magpies' rumoured interest in the Cameroon international earlier this week, as recently-appointed boss Steve McClaren looks to strengthen his squad ahead of the new season.

It has now been suggested by The Metro that a deal worth in the region of £10m is close to being completed for the 23-year-old centre-back.

Matip, who can also play further forward in midfield if required, has plenty of previous experience having appeared in the Champions League and the World Cup in the past.