Newcastle United 'closing on Mitchel Bakker'

Newcastle United have reportedly identified Bayer Leverkusen defender Mitchel Bakker as a potential addition.

While Magpies boss Eddie Howe has already brought in Kieran Trippier and Chris Wood, several more players are expected to arrive at St James' Park before the end of the January transfer window.

According to The Telegraph, Newcastle have signalled their intent to get a deal for Bakker over the line.

Although the 21-year-old has only made 13 starts and three substitute appearances in all competitions this season, he missed a number of weeks through injury.

The Dutchman has since returned to play 90 minutes in each of Leverkusen's three fixtures, helping the Bundesliga club to seven points.

Bakker, formerly of Paris Saint-Germain, will allegedly cost in the region of £14.5m.