Newcastle want Bournemouth's Ritchie

Newcastle United are set to sign Bournemouth's creative midfielder Matt Ritchie for an estimated £12m. 

The Magpies are looking to improve their squad as they aim to gain promotion and return to the Premier League. 

The move would mean that Ritchie drops down a level to the Championship but he is said to be prepared to take the risk. 

It is understood that West Ham are also interested in the Scotland international who has impressed in his first season in the Premier League with the Cherries. 

It appears to be a busy transfer window for Newcastle as they have today signed Belgian keeper Matz Sels and may be selling winger Andros Townsend to Crystal Palace.