Mystery man set for Toon move

Published May. 22, 2011 3:15 p.m. ET

foxsports

The Magpies are desperate to keep the identity of the player under wraps as they aim to steal an early march in the transfer market on their Premier League rivals. It is believed they have already agreed a fee with the European-based central midfielder's club. Pardew hopes to conclude the deal in the next few days before unveiling the player to the Toon Army. Speaking to the Sunday Sun, he said: "I think we're close on one player which we would like to get over the line. "And I can say that because he's an international player - not someone who belongs to one of the bottom four battling relegation." The club are also eyeing up several other targets following a five-hour transfer meeting chaired by owner Mike Ashley. Pardew added: "There are two or three others we're monitoring and we know what the figures are to get them over the line."