Magpies keen on Obertan

Newcastle manager Alan Pardew is expected to complete the signing of winger Gabriel Obertan from Manchester United.

The 22-year-old French player moved to Old Trafford from Bordeaux two years ago but has been unable to hold down a regular place in Sir Alex Ferguson’s first team.

Pardew believes Obertan can thrive at St James’ Park, providing the attacking speed which he suggests the Magpies were missing last season.

Pardew told The Chronicle: “I said I wanted to bring pace into the team.

“It was lacking last year and Gabriel will definitely bring that to the team.”