By Wayne Veysey

31st Jan, 2022 | 8:45pm

Sources: Newcastle defender Jamal Lewis makes mind up on joining Birmingham or Stoke after talks

Newcastle defender Jamal Lewis has rejected potential loan moves to Birmingham City and Stoke, Football Insider understands.

Magpies boss Eddie Howe was happy to let Lewis leave on loan so that he can room space to add his new signings to his Premier League squad and Birmingham and Stoke made approaches for the 24-year-old.

A recruitment source has told Football Insider that Northern Ireland international Lewis has turned down the interest from Birmingham and Stoke and is set to stay at Newcastle once the transfer window closes tonight.

Football Insider revealed earlier today (31 January) that Birmingham were in talks over a potential temporary deal.

The loan signing of Matt Targett from Aston Villa means Howe was happy to let Lewis head out on loan.

The former Norwich star is set to be pushed further down the pecking order at St James’ Park.

Paul Dummett and Matt Ritchie have both featured at left-back this season.

However, Lewis has decided not to leave Tyneside before the 11pm deadline.

The news will come as a blow to both Birmingham and Stoke, who had hoped to strengthen their squads with the left-back.

Lewis has played four times in the Premier League for Newcastle this season.

A hamstring injury left him sidelined shortly after Howe’s arrival at St James’ Park.

Targett’s arrival means he faces a struggle to break back into the Newcastle starting XI.

Birmingham have been busy in the loan market this month, signing Teden Mengi, Onel Hernandez, Lyle Taylor and Taylor Richards.

The Blues have also added Juninho Bacuna to the squad on a permanent deal from Rangers.

In other news, Hugo Ekitike makes mind up on joining Newcastle United after breakthrough in talks.