Mike Williamson edges nearer to Wolverhampton Wanderers move

Newcastle United defender Mike Williamson is reportedly close to finalising a move to Championship side Wolverhampton Wanderers.

The 32-year-old centre-back is out of favour in the North East under Steve McClaren and impressed during a brief loan stint at the Midlands side earlier this season, keeping three clean sheets in five games.

According to Sky Sports News, Williamson is now in the final stages of talks on an 18-month contract and will undergo a medical on Thursday after a fee of £250,000 was agreed between the two sides.

Wolves' extensive injury problems have left them with just five senior defenders to call upon, with manager Kenny Jackett insisting that he is "working hard" to recruit new faces before the transfer window closes next week.

Williamson reportedly turned down a move to promotion chasers Sheffield Wednesday in favour of a return to Wolves, who sit eight points of the playoff places in the Championship.