Newcastle to make a shock move for Saints attacker and Man Utd prepare to let Valdes leave

Gaston Ramirez is reported to be a target for Gaston Ramirez

NEWCASTLE are lining up a shock deal for Southampton attacker Gaston Ramirez, according to reports.

 

The Uruguayan, 24, was once the south coast club's record signing but has struggled to settle since moving to St Mary's from Bologna for £12million in 2012.

He spent last season on loan at relegated Hull and has made just two appearances since returning to Ronald Koeman's side at the beginning of this season.

 

However, The Newcastle Chronicle claim that has not put Newcastle off and they could be keen to bolster their attacking options.

Their stuttering start to the campaign means they are already faced with the prospect of a relegation battle despite shelling out close to £50million on five new signings in the summer.

Manager Steve McClaren is reported to be keen on warding off any threat of relegation early by strengthening his side further in January.

 

Victor Valdes is being lined up as a replacement for the injured Tim Krul

 

Krul ruptured an anterior cruciate knee ligament while playing for Holland

He also needs a goalkeeper after Tim Krul was ruled out for the rest of the season and Manchester United's Victor Valdes looks to be the most likely option.

The Spaniard's agent has confirmed he will leave Old Trafford when the transfer window opens after being frozen out by manager Louis van Gaal.

And reports in The Daily Mirror claim the 33-year-old is interested in filling the void left by Krul by moving to Tyneside.