By Wayne Veysey

31st Jan, 2022 | 7:26pm

Sources: Ciaran Clark makes mind up on signing for Middlesbrough after Newcastle green light

Newcastle United defender Ciaran Clark has turned down a potential loan move to Middlesbrough, Football Insider understands.

Newcastle were open to letting Clark, 32, leave on loan before Monday’s transfer deadline as they aimed to free up spaces in their Premier League squad for all their new signings this month.

A recruitment source has told Football Insider that Middlesbrough boss Chris Wilder was keen to sign Clark but the Republic of Ireland international has snubbed the loan switch.

Wilder has been in the market for new centre-backs in a bid to strengthen his defensive options this month.

Football Insider revealed earlier today (31 January) Boro had made a move to prise Clark from St James’ Park.

Newcastle were prepared to allow the former Aston Villa star to leave temporarily this month.

However, he has turned down the opportunity.

Clark is set to fall further down the pecking order under Eddie Howe due to the imminent arrival of Dan Burn from Brighton.

It remains to be seen if he will make Newcastle’s final 25-man Premier League squad.

Clark featured regularly during the early stages of the Magpies’ season, with 10 starts in 12 league games.

However, he was roundly criticised for his sending off against Norwich City in November and has struggled to regain his place under Howe.

With Brighton defender Burn on Tyneside for a medical, the Magpies gave Clark permission to leave.

Middlesbrough registered their interest in striking a deal before tonight’s 11pm deadline.

However, it is understood Clark has turned down the opportunity to move across the north east.

Howe’s recognised centre-back options include Jamaal Lascelles, Federico Fernandez and Fabian Schar.

Paul Dummett and Emil Krafth have also featured as makeshift options.

In other news, Football Insider can reveal Newcastle United first-teamer in talks to join Midlands outfit.