Newcastle United defender set for surprise transfer move

The Magpies have several options on the left-hand side of his defence with imminent arrival Matt Targett set to compete with Matt Ritchie and Paul Dummett for a place in Eddie Howe’s starting lineup.

Northern Ireland international Lewis has been out of action since suffering a hamstring injury in the 3-1 defeat at Liverpool in December - but is now closing in on a return to full fitness.

The 24-year-old defender has suffered mixed fortunes since arriving at St James Park in a £13.5million deal from Norwich City in the summer of 2020.

There were high hopes Lewis would become one of the key beneficiaries of Eddie Howe’s appointment, with the United boss keen to allow his full-backs to get involving with his attacking style of play.

Despite his injury, Lewis remains part of the long-term plans at St James Park but could make a temporary switch away from Tyneside to regain full fitness and free up a space in United’s Premier League squad.

A number of Championship clubs are believed to be monitoring the situation as the January transfer window enters its final hours.