Newcastle United defender Ciaran Clark could be the subject of a loan bid from Aston Villa, according to Bristol Live.

What's the word?

The Magpies are not permitted to recruit more signings now that the window has closed, so it is important that they do not lose any key players to the Football League or divisions abroad.

Championship clubs are among those who can secure loan deals until the end of August, and it seems that one of Newcastle's players is being eyed.

According to Bristol Live, Aston Villa are considering a swoop for Clark, who previously played for the Midlands outfit before joining the Magpies in 2016.

Clark is in danger of dropping down the pecking order under Newcastle manager Rafael Benitez, but the 31-capped Republic of Ireland international still has three years left on his contract.

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How should Newcastle react?

If a loan bid comes in for for the centre-back, then the Premier League club must rebuff it.

Even though Clark could end up struggling for first-team minutes this season, the Irishman proved during the club's promotion bid that he can be pivotal.

Florian Lejeune is currently on the treatment table, therefore it would make no sense for the Magpies to offload one of their options at the back.

Fabian Schar and Federico Fernandez will be pushing for first-team spots, but in the event of an injury crisis, Clark's presence would be very much needed.

Newcastle do not want to leave themselves in a position of weakness when they need cover as the season progresses, and Benitez is smart enough to know that.

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