Newcastle United are on the verge of making their second signing of the summer.
Newcastle United have sat back and watched other teams around them make multiple signings ahead of the new season. The Magpies signed goalkeeper Mark Gillespie last month, but no outfield players have walked through the doors.
The club has been linked to several players over the last few weeks, but no major news has arisen in terms of ongoing talks with clubs and agents.
That might change over the next 24 hours, though. According to a new report from TalkSport, former Burnley midfielder Jeff Hendrick will agree to a deal with Newcastle United, and it could be as soon as tomorrow.
Fans will not be overly excited about this free signing, but the Republic of Ireland international has sufficient talent and Premier League experience to start alongside Jonjo Shelvey in the middle of the park.
Hendrick has been a key player for Sean Dyche at Burnley over the past four seasons, and this is reflected in the fact that he made 122 league appearances for the Clarets, with 107 starts.
Hendrick is known for his composure on the ball, good field vision, and aggressive defending. His offensive involvement in terms of scoring goals and bagging assists will be minimal, but his work rate in midfield will make up for that.
Hendrick will certainly be an upgrade from Nabil Bentaleb, and he will provide solid competition for Isaac Hayden and Sean Longstaff. The key internal battle for Bruce to keep an eye on is that between Hayden and Hendrick.
That being said, this deal is all but official. Newcastle United will secure the services of a talented midfielder in a bargain deal, but fans will be hoping that a quality striker and winger are next in line.