Alan Pardew expects signing within fortnight

Newcastle United manager Alan Pardew is confident of making his first big summer signing within the next two weeks.

The Magpies have struggled in their pursuit of new additions thus far, reportedly having bids for FC Twente striker Luuk de Jong and Ajax midfielder Vurnon Anita rejected.

Despite such setbacks, Pardew remains upbeat over his side's prospects in the transfer market.

When asked if any signings were imminent, he replied: "No, I don't think so, not in the immediate week or so, but certainly over the next 14 days, I would like to think a body would come in.

"I would like to think we have got a strategy, and we are looking at various options of players to come in, of course.

"The good news for us is we haven't lost anybody, and we are doing everything we can to make sure that this team that bedded in so well last year goes forward together."

Newcastle signed former Coventry City youngster Gael Bigirimana on a five-year contract last week.