ASTON Villa midfielder Stephen Ireland was today undergoing a medical at Newcastle as the Magpies closed in on a loan deal.

It is understood the 24-year-old was in the North-East today as manager Alan Pardew looked to bolster his squad for the remainder of the season.

There was no official confirmation from the club, but sources on Tyneside are hopeful that a deal can be struck ahead of tomorrow night's transfer deadline.