The highly-rated 21-year-old Scandinavian's advisor Andreas Ekker confirmed to the Chronicle that while Newcastle were yet to contact him or Rosenborg over a potential move, Skjelbred was keen on a move to one of Europe's top leagues.

A source close to the Norwegian club told the Chronicle: "I have been informed that Newcastle appeared very interested and that they have been watching him since mid-May.

"Tottenham, Rennes, Portsmouth and Fulham have also been scouting him, although there has been no approach yet.

"This has also been reported several times in the Norwegian media, and Ciljan Skjelbred is quoted as saying he has been a fan of Newcastle United since he was a child."