Newcastle discuss deal to sign Bees star

Newcastle are discussing a deal to sign Alan Judge from Brentford.

A number of clubs were lining up bids for the 27-year-old playmaker before he suffered a double leg break during the Bees’ win at Ipswich in April.

As well as delaying any move, the injury ruled Republic of Ireland international Judge out of the European Championship.

He is unlikely to be available to play again until October at the earliest, but Newcastle are aware that other clubs are likely to be monitoring his progress so the Magpies have made their move now.

If Newcastle do not complete a deal to sign him during this month’s transfer window there could instead be an agreement in principle for Judge to join them when the window reopens in January.