Newcastle United 'close to wrapping up Daniel Sturridge loan'

Newcastle United have reportedly emerged as the frontrunners to sign Daniel Sturridge on loan from Liverpool and are hopeful of finalising a deal in the next 24 hours.

The 28-year-old remains at Anfield with a little over two days of the transfer window left to run, despite supposedly being made available to take on a short-term contract.

Inter Milan appeared the most likely option for Sturridge, though his £150,000-a-week-wages - which Liverpool wanted paid in full by the Italian side - proved to be a sticking point.

According to The Mirror, Newcastle have pounced by making an approach for the English striker and a deal is expected to be finalised ahead of Wednesday night's transfer deadline.

Sturridge, restricted to nine top-flight appearances this term, has also been linked with Roma and West Ham United in recent weeks.