Newcastle are ready to make a January raid for Molde midfielder Jo Inge Berget, The Sun claim.

The Tyneside club are eyeing up players to strengthen their squad once the transfer window reopens, and have identified the Scandinavian star as a potential target after scouting him over recent months.

Molde, who are managed by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, have placed a £2 million price tag on the 22-year-old's head, but will be willing to part with the player if the Tyneside outfit stump up his asking price.

Berget had a failed attempt at moving abroad when he joined Italian side Udinese in 2008, and has since played for Lyn, Stromsgodset and now Molde in his homeland.

The attacking midfielder, who can also play as a second striker, has one Norway cap to his name but is highly rated after a strong last 12 months domestically.

Newcastle have a track record of finding bargain buys of late, with Alan Pardew unearthing a number of stars after paying minimal transfer fees.

By Gareth McKnight