He would the fourth summer signing for new boss Sam Allardyce following Mark Viduka, Joey Barton and David Rozehnal as the former Bolton boss rebuilds the squad on Tyneside.

The 28-year-old Cameroon international was understood to have agreed a three-year deal to secure his transfer to St James' Park.

The former Real Madrid star, who spent a season on loan at Middlesbrough before heading for Stamford Bridge, made 28 appearances for the Blues last season, but has struggled to hold down a regular place.