Sol Campbell is due to have a medical with Newcastle on Tuesday afternoon with a view to signing for the newly-promoted Premier League club.

The 35-year-old defender has been out of contract since his deal with Arsenal ran out this summer and had been linked with the Magpies' North-East rivals Sunderland as well as Celtic.

It is understood, however, that Newcastle have won the race for his services as they look to strengthen their defence ahead of their return to the top flight.

Magpies boss Chris Hughton has concerns over his defence heading into the new season with the club awaiting to discover the extent of Steven Taylor's shoulder injury.

Taylor is set to at least miss the start of the campaign, which Newcastle begin away to Manchester United on August 16, but there are fears he could be sidelined for several months, prompting Hughton to make his move for Campbell.

Sunderland's interest in the former England international diminished in recent weeks after they signed former Magpies defender Titus Bramble from Wigan, while they are also expected to loan John Mensah for another season from Lyon.

Campbell has only recently returned from his honeymoon after being married in Northumberland earlier this month, after which he had indicated a decision on his future would be made public.

The central defender made a shock return to the Premier League for a second spell with Arsenal last season, after he had signed for then npower League Two side Notts County.

Campbell left the Magpies after just one match before rejoining the Gunners on a short-term deal that expired this summer.