Duff going to Newcastle

Damien Duff was tonight on the brink of a transfer from Chelsea to Newcastle.

The 27-year-old Republic of Ireland winger was undergoing a medical, after which the transfer will be completed.

A statement on the club website, nufc.co.uk, declared: “The board of Newcastle United PLC are pleased to announce that contracts have been exchanged with Chelsea Football Club for the transfer of Damien Duff.

“The player, having agreed terms, is currently undergoing a medical.”