Stoke City defender Erik Pieters is interesting Newcastle United.

The Evening Chronicle says Newcastle are stepping up their bid to bring in a new left-back following Paul Dummett's injury over the international break.

It is understood that United's talent spotters have been briefed again to find a first-team-ready full-back ahead of the January window.

Newcastle have checked out another summer target in the shape of Paris St-Germain's Stanley N'Soki in recent times with the left-back starting just four Ligue 1 games this season for the French giants.

Another summer target in Pieters, currently plying his trade for Stoke City in the Championship, is thought to be open to a move to Tyneside.

But with the former PSV Eindhoven star now in his 30s, Rafa Benitez may face a fight to convince his board to part with a big fee for his services.