Newcastle United are chasing Coventry City midfielder Gael Bigirimana.

Bigirimana has been likened to Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien because of his all-action style of play.

A source told the Daily Star Sunday: "The boy is very highly rated and it is clear he possesses bundles of talent.

"A lot of Premier League clubs were watching him towards the end of the season and nobody more than Newcastle, who were regular visitors to the Ricoh Stadium.

"Coventry know they face a real fight to keep him after their relegation from the Championship and if a big enough bid comes in they will have to take it."