A report in the News of the World this morning claims "Newcastle boss Chris Hughton will target Manchester United midfielder Tom Cleverley in the January transfer window."

Cleverley is currently on loan at Watford in a deal until the end of the season but according to Martin Hardy, "the success of Old Trafford team-mate Danny Simpson's switch to St James' Park could persuade him to hit the Toon trail instead."

The 20-year-old central midfielder impressed on loan at Leicester City last season and has also represented England at Under-21 level.

This season Cleverley has made 14 appearances for Watford, scoring five goals and providing four assists.