'Moving closer': Craig Hope now says Newcastle's move for 'special' 26-year-old is looking good

The positive transfer updates surrounding Newcastle United's free-agent hunt continue to come.

Last night Fabrizio Romano updated fans on the progress of the moves for Tosin Adarabioyo and Lloyd Kelly who are set to leave as free agents when their contracts expire with Fulham and Bournemouth respectively.

Newcastle have been in contact with both players over making St James' Park their next destination and it seems like things are progressing well with both players.

Now Craig Hope has added his voice to the choir of positivity via a post on X on Monday morning.

Craig Hope now thinks the deal for Tosin Adarabioyo is close

Hope linked to an article he did on Sunday in a new post which said that things are moving closer.

"NUFC now clear favourites to sign Tosin Adarabioyo on free transfer.

"We understand Fulham defender values ambition of club & has been impressed by project presented to him after talks."

Adarabioyo set to choose Newcastle over Tottenham

There had been doubts over whether Tosin Adarabioyo would choose Newcastle over Tottenham who are also keen on the 26-year-old that Marco Silva has dubbed as 'special'.

Adarabioyo is said be keen to work with Eddie Howe and that could be the deciding factor for the central defender along with his appreciation for the project and ambition at the club.

Lloyd Kelly has always felt like a more nailed-on prospect given his pre-existing relationship with Eddie Howe, so it now looks like Newcastle could be about to complete a double swoop with zero transfer fees involved. The perfect start to the summer.