Newcastle hoping to seal loan deal for Chelsea midfielder, but play down James McCarthy rumours

Rafael Benitez is hoping to push through his 12th summer signing in the next 48 hours as Newcastle close in on a loan deal for Chelsea midfielder Christian Atsu.

It is understood the Magpies are in talks with both the club and the player and hope to bring the 24-year-old Ghana international to St James' Park for the remainder of the season.