Newcastle set to sign Karim Ziani?

Newcastle have apparently reached a deal with Wolfsburg for the services of Karim Ziani, according to several overseas news publications.

Now we've been here before with regard to news of potential new players reaching us from overseas sources, but on the other hand, this is the exact same way that most of us found out about our initial interest in Hatem Ben Arfa.

I guesss much of this depends on how accurate these respective news outlets are. If they are on the money then it would appear that we have agreed a deal of around £2 million for the Algerian international midfielder who will seal a three-and-a-half year deal, subject to a medical, at some point in the next week.

Ziani is 28 years old and has made 60 appearances for the Algerian national team. He can play in a number of different positions across the midfield or he can play the withdrawn striker role. He is known for his technical ability and creativity rather than his goalscoring ability.

As I said, there is nothing confirmed in this and not much has been heard about it over here in the UK, but if true it would be another face through the door to add to the ranks, and it would give us another option when it comes to unlocking defences.

Ziani is said to prefer a move back to France, where he started his career, although as yet there appears to be little interest and only a loan deal from RC Lens could be on the cards. Ziani would choose a permanant move over a loan though, which has apparently opened the door for Newcastle.

Wages could have proved a stumbling block, but it would appear that the player has lowered his demands to agree a move to Tyneside, again if it is true. I mean for all we know it could be an agent jostling for a move and using the name of Newcastle to stir up some interest.

What do you think?