Newcastle United appear to have won the race to sign Dan Gosling who left Everton last week in controversial circumstances.

However, United boss Chris Hughton will not be able to unveil the £4million-rated 20-year-old for several weeks.

The deal is dependent on whether the Toffees appeal a Premier League decision to let him leave Goodison Park on a free transfer.

Gosling exploited a loophole in Premier League rules to leave Everton for nothing after the Toffees offered the player a new deal verbally, but did not put anything down in writing by the required date.

The Premier League ruled that Gosling was free to move on as Everton did not make a written contract offer.

The former Plymouth Argyle star was also chased by Bolton Wanderers, West Ham United and Sunderland after deciding to leave Merseyside.

He scored six times in 18 starts and 19 substitute appearances for Everton since making his debut on Boxing Day 2008.Subscribe to Football FanCast News Headlines by Email