Newcastle United gossip: Magpies consider free agent deal, Ex-Premier League boss eyes Toon job

Olivier Ntcham has again been linked with a move to Newcastle United. (Photo by ROMAIN PERROCHEAU / AFP) (Photo by ROMAIN PERROCHEAU/AFP via Getty Images)

Here are the latest rumours involving the Magpies as Steve Bruce plans for what he hopes is a busy summer:

Olivier Ntcham ‘back’ on Toon radar

Newcastle United reportedly remain interested in Celtic midfielder Olivier Ntcham, with his contract set to be terminated.

Steve Bruce has publicly spoken of his desire to sign Joe Willock from Arsenal but according to Football Insider, Ntcham is also viewed as a potential option.

The 25-year-old was briefly linked with the Magpies in January before joining Marseille. His arrival in France then led to Andre Villas-Boas’ exit after it was claimed Ntcham was signed without his permission.

Despite being under contract until 2022, Celtic are planning to terminate his contract a year early – making Ntcham available on a free transfer.

Freddie Woodman tipped to attract interest

Former Aston Villa full-back Alan Hutton believes Freddie Woodman is bound to attract interest from a number of clubs this summer.

Woodman has impressed on loan at Swansea City for the second successive campaign and has recently been linked with Arsenal.

Steve Bruce, with Martin Dubravka, Karl Darlow and Mark Gillespie at his disposal, has a decision to make, according to Hutton.

He told Football Insider: “It’s a difficult one for Steve Bruce but it’s a good headache. He’s only 24 and he’s still young but it’s going to be a good battle for them.

“After having such a good season and playing, he’ll want to continue that. So Newcastle have a big decision because there will be plenty of top clubs looking at him after his recent displays.”

Chris Wilder keen on Newcastle job – reports

Chris Wilder is willing to wait until early next season for a Premier League job – with Newcastle in his sights.

That’s according to The Sun, who claims the former Sheffield United boss is stalling on an offer to succeed Sam Allardyce at West Brom.

Having finished the campaign strong, Steve Bruce is expected to remain in charge on Tyneside but apparently, Wilder could be waiting in the wings.

That said, the Baggies may still tempt 53-year-old Wilder to the Hawthorns by offering him £25,000 a week plus a Championship promotion bonus.