Newcastle Coach Graeme Souness is under pressure to bring better results for the Northern England Club and seems keen to sign Ivory Coast defender Abdoulaye Meite. The transfer however might not go through, because of Meite's Ivory Coast obligations in the African Cup of Nations.

Media reports suggest that the transfer will go through and the player is reportedly going to fly to Newcastle and discuss the terms of the agreement. However, Meite's agent, Willie McKay, said that Newcastle will need to know if the player will be playing or not at the African Cup of Nations.

"I know (Newcastle United chairman) Freddy Shepherd has spoken to (Marseille chairman) Pape Diouf about Meite and a deal could happen," he told Sky Sports Television.

"Meite would be keen on a move to Newcastle, but the deal could depend on whether or not he plays in the African Cup of Nations. Newcastle want him now to help them out and they do not want to sign him and then see him go away with the Ivory Coast to the African Cup of Nations."

"Meite is a top player and I think he is ideal to play in the Premiership, as he is strong and aggressive as he showed in the UEFA Cup against Liverpool and Newcastle."

The situation is pretty tight for the Newcastle manager after some disappointing results. He is looking to reinforce his defence and also find alternatives while Michael Owen is injured.

On the other hand, Freddy Shepherd has already paid about 50 million pounds (sterling) in the past 18-months for Newcastle transfers and many think that he will not easily put the hand into his pocket in January's transfer window.

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