Newcastle United are showing serious interest in Manchester United defender Axel Tuanzebe.

The Red Devils are close to securing the signing of Raphael Varane from Real Madrid, which would put Tuanzebe further down the pecking order for a starting spot.

Given the competition for places at Old Trafford, The Telegraph reports that Newcastle are hopeful of securing Tuanzebe on a season long loan deal.

The Magpies do have a Man United connection, given their manager is former Red Devils centre-back Steve Bruce.

The source claims Newcastle may secure Tuanzebe before they can do a deal to sign Joe Willock from Arsenal.