Edmilson - who can also play as a defensive midfielder - is regarded by Allardyce as too big a risk until he proves his fitness following summer knee surgery which has kept him out of the Barcelona team this season.

But the Magpies boss is keen on the 42-cap international, who has confirmed he will leave the Nou Camp this season as his contract expires in the summer.

"I am afraid he is now not an option for us in January," said Allardyce.

"He has not played at all this season and it would be too much of a risk to bring him here next month.

"But I will certainly be interested in going for him in the summer."