Newcastle United are insisting on protecting themselves by including a clause in their contract with Manchester City midfielder Joey Barton.

The Sun says Barton, 24, is expected to complete a £5.5million switch today.

But Toon have insisted on a contract clause to protect the club if Barton is charged by police and jailed over his bust-up with Ousmane Dabo.

Barton was arrested and quizzed by cops over the alleged assault on his team-mate and if he is jailed, is almost certain to dumped by Toon.

Newcastle boss Sam Allardyce is prepared to take a risk on Barton, who also stubbed a cigar out in a team-mate's face.