Newcastle United are reportedly close to completing the signing of goalkeeper Loris Karius.

With the summer transfer window having shut last Thursday, clubs are only able to sign free agents for the remainder of the year.

Eddie Howe has started the season with three goalkeepers at his disposal, new arrival Nick Pope already established as the undisputed number one.

However, according to Sky Sports News, the Magpies have been dealt a blow with Karl Darlow sustaining an ankle injury in training on Wednesday.

Although Mark Gillespie is also part of the first-team squad, Howe has moved to bring in former Liverpool stopper Karius.

The 29-year-old is already said to be at the Newcastle training ground ahead of being formally confirmed as a new signing.

Karius has been without a club since departing Liverpool during the summer after the expiration of his contract.

The German last represented Union Berlin on loan during the 2020-21 campaign, making just four starts and one substitute outing in all competitions.

He went the whole of last season without making a senior start having been left out of Jurgen Klopp's plans at Anfield.

Karius has not represented Liverpool in a competitive fixture since he made two errors during the 3-1 defeat to Real Madrid in the 2018 Champions League final.

A two-year loan to Besiktas followed that infamous performance with 65 appearances being made for the Turkish giants in all competitions.

If, as expected, Karius pens a deal before midday on Friday, he will be available to feature in the squad for the Premier League fixture at West Ham United on Sunday afternoon.

As it stands, it is unclear whether Karius will sign terms which last until January or the end of 2022-23. body check tags ::