Newcastle linked with surprise Valdes swoop

Newcastle United are ready to make a shock move for Manchester United goalkeeper Victor Valdes, according to the Daily Star.

With first choice shot-stopper Tim Krul ruled out for the rest of the season with a knee injury, the North East club are on the lookout for a replacement and have identified Valdes as the man to fill the void.

The Spain international has been frozen out at Old Trafford and has been linked with both Chelsea and Liverpool though Red Devils boss Louis Van Gaal is reluctant to sell to a direct rival.

Since moving to England, the thirty-three year old has made just two competitive appearances both of which coming at the very end of last season.

Former Nottingham Forest keeper Karl Darlow is in line for his Premier League debut as bottom-of-the-table Newcastle host Norwich City on Sunday afternoon and the home win can be backed at 8/5.