Montpellier defender Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa is scheduled for a medical at Newcastle on Monday ahead of a £6.7m move.
The 23-year-old France international is set to sign a four-year deal at St James’ Park.
He will be Newcastle’s second signing of the transfer window after France right-back Mathieu Debuchy.
Manager Alan Pardew has moved to strengthen his defence after conceding 15 goals in five league games and winning only three of their last 18.
The Newcastle boss is also facing a fight to keep hold of his captain Fabricio Coloccini after the central defender asked to leave the club.
BBC Sport
