Championship side Leeds United are eyeing a loan move for Newcastle United defender Mike Williamson as they look to strengthen their defensive set-up, reports CalcioMercato.

The 31-year-old defender has been at the North-East club since 2010 and has been a sporadic key figure at the club across his five year stay.

However, Steve McClaren looks set to let Williamson leave the Premier League club amid interest from a number of Sky Bet Championship clubs.

The defender was subject to a lot of criticism for his poor performances in the Premier League last season and with the emergency loan window opening on Wednesday, it looks like Leeds might be set to make a loan bid for the defender.

The news comes amid speculation that there may be as many as six Newcastle players about to leave St James Park, and the emergency loan window is a good opportunity for some of Newcastle's fringe players to gain some first team action, as the loan window permits moves for a period of between 28 and 93 days.

The defenders physical presence and ability to dominate is something that Leeds United boss Uwe Rosler will surely be interested in as he looks to improve his promising Championship side.

Playing alongside the likes of Sol Bamba, Williamson could become part of a solid back line at Leeds that could challenge for a top-six spot come the end of the season.

Whether or not Williamson will make the switch to Elland Road is unclear, but if the defender isn't in Steve McClaren's first team plans then it is likely that he will be leaving St James Park, albeit on a temporary basis.

If the loan move does happen, then Williamson will add to the quality that Leeds United have brought in this summer transfer window.

Leeds fans..... Would you be happy if Williamson signed for your club? Let us know in the comments below!