Mike Williamson to make permanent return to Wolverhampton Wanderers?

Newcastle United defender Mike Williamson could return to Wolverhampton Wanderers on a permanent deal next month.

The 32-year-old impressed during a five-game loan spell with the Championship side in October and November before being recalled by his parent club after injuries left them short at the back.

Now Magpies boss Steve McClaren is looking to offload Williamson, who has been in the North-East for five years, for a "nominal fee" in January, the Express & Star reports.

During his time at Wolves, the team kept three clean sheets and conceded three times, but since his departure they have conceded nine and won just once in four attempts to drift down to 17th in the table.

Kenny Jackett's side are also thought to be close to capturing the services of Polish winger Michal Zyro from Legia Warsaw.