Sky Bet Championship side Newcastle United will not be signing Chelsea's highly-rated midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek, according to the Northern Echo.

Newcastle United were a number of sides chasing Loftus-Cheek as it appeared that the powerful 20-year-old midfielder would be available on loan.

However, it has now been reported that Chelsea manager Antonio Conte is keen on keeping Ruben Loftus-Cheek at Chelsea for the remainder of the season.

The experienced Italian manager wants to monitor Loftus-Cheek's progression closely at Chelsea and sees the player having a part to play in Chelsea's squad.

The news comes as a blow to Rafa Benitez and Newcastle United who were hoping to add Loftus-Cheek to their ranks, and bolster their squad even more so as they look to secure promotion to the Premier League at the first time of asking.

Instead, Rafa Benitez and Lee Charnley will now have to look elsewhere potentially to Fulham's Tom Cairney if they want to add even further to Newcastle United's midfield options.

Newcastle fans, what do you make of the news? Are you disappointed to miss out on a player of Loftus-Cheek's quality? Is it a big loss, in your opinion? Would the addition of Loftus-Cheek further secured Newcastle United's status as promotion favourites? Do Newcastle need to strengthen the midfield position, if so, who should they look to bring in? Let us hear your thoughts and opinions in the comment section below!