Newcastle United reportedly had scouts in attendance for Leeds United's game against QPR on Saturday afternoon. 

It has been reported by Football Insider that the scouts were keeping a close eye on QPR midfielder Ryan Manning over a potential transfer swoop ahead of the January transfer window.

The 23-year-old has made 15 appearances so far for Mark Warburton's side this season, and it seems as though his recent performances haven't gone unnoticed.

Steve Bruce's side are currently sat 15th in the Premier League table after they beat West Ham United 3-2 on Saturday, and Bruce will be looking to strengthen his squad in the near future.

QPR have made a relatively strong start to the season in the Championship this term, but they dropped down to ninth position after the 2-0 defeat to Elland Road on Saturday afternoon.

It certainly won't be a transfer window that many QPR supporters are looking forward to, with the likes of Manning and Eberechi Eze being linked with departures in the New Year.

It remains to be seen as to how much QPR's asking price is for Manning, but Football Insider are claiming that any potential suitors should be looking at a fee in the region of £2m-£3m.

But for now, Manning will be looking ahead to QPR's next game, which is against a Middlesbrough side that are struggling to stay afloat in the Championship under the guidance of Jonathan Woodgate.

The Verdict: 

This could be a shrewd signing by Newcastle.

Manning has impressed me with QPR in recent seasons, but I'm not convinced that he's good enough to make the step up to the Premier League at this moment in time.

Newcastle need players that are going to be ready for the Premier League straight away, and I think there are better options available for Steve Bruce in the January transfer window.