NEWCASTLE UNITED have missed out on another of their leading January transfer targets, with Tom Cleverley on the verge of a loan move to Watford.

Cleverley is due to undergo a medical at Watford's training ground later this morning, with Everton having a sanctioned a season-long loan move to the Hornets, with a view to a permanent transfer in the summer.

Newcastle boss Rafael Benitez had identified the England international as one of his leading midfield targets before the transfer window opened, and Magpies officials made a number of approaches in an attempt to seal a deal.

However, Cleverley was always reluctant to drop down to the Championship, and once Premier League clubs also declared an interest, Newcastle were facing a losing battle.

Cleverley's decision to move elsewhere represents the latest blow in what is becoming an increasingly difficult transfer window for Benitez.

Another leading target, Ruben Loftus-Cheek, was scratched off the list this week, with Chelsea boss Antonio Conte revealing the youngster would not be leaving Stamford Bridge this month.

Benitez has shelved his interest in Tom Cairney after Fulham demanded what he regards as an unrealistic sum for the Scotsman, and while a loan offer for Manchester City's Fabian Delph remains on the table, there has been no sign of the England midfielder being interested in a move to the North-East.