Scouts Watch Two Newcastle Players, Suggesting Summer Exits Are Likely

Are Kevin Mbabu and Gael Bigirimana on their way out of St James' Park?

Scouts from Burnley and Wigan Athletic watched Newcastle United duo Kevin Mbabu and Gael Bigirimana in action, a report claims. The Chronicle suggests that two Football League clubs sent representatives to watch the pair, who it is claimed "are available for transfer", in action for the Magpies' Under-21 side during the 1-1 draw with Blackburn Rovers at Whitley Park on Monday night. Magpies head coach Steve McClaren and managing director Lee Charnley were also in attendance as Ivan Toney made his home debut for the Under-21s - and it is believed both Bigirimana and Mbabu could leave before the transfer window shuts.

Defensive-midfielder Bigirimana signed for Newcastle from Coventry City back in July 2012 and, despite making 13 Premier League appearances and netting once, his progress stagnated due to loss of form and injury. He was even sent out on loan to Rangers in January, but failed to play a single minute for the Glasgow club. Versatile defender Mbabu, meanwhile, arrived on Tyneside in January 2013 and, after undergoing a successful trial, he signed for the Magpies from Servette. However, he has failed to make a single first-team appearance for Newcastle since and, along with Bigirimana, Mbabu was sent on loan to Rangers in January. He did not make an appearance or even make it on to the bench, however. CLICK HERE to read: "Ivan Toney Watch - How Did Newcastle Youngster Perform In Front Of McClaren?"For all the latest NUFC News, Views and Transfers make sure to follow WhatCulture.com/NUFC on Twitter and Facebook.

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Contributor

NUFC editor for WhatCulture.com/NUFC. History graduate (University of Edinburgh) and NCTJ-trained journalist. I love sports, hopelessly following Newcastle United and Newcastle Falcons. My pastimes include watching and attending sports matches religiously, reading spy books and sampling ales.