Chelsea Transfer News: Tammy Abraham Reportedly Close to Newcastle Loan Move

Newcastle United are reportedly "on the verge" of snapping up Chelsea's Tammy Abraham on loan. 

According to the Daily Mail's Rob Draper, Magpies boss Rafael Benitez has leveraged his close relationship with Chelsea technical director Michael Emenalo to seal the deal, as the Blues were planning on keeping Abraham with their first team.

Chelsea want the 19-year-old—who spent last season on loan with Bristol City—to garner Premier League experience, and the deal "is expected to be tied up this weekend."

The Chronicle's Lee Ryder also reported on Thursday night that an agreement appears to be fast approaching:

Abraham struck 23 goals in the Championship last term, the same number as Newcastle's Dwight Gayle managed. The teenager made nine more appearances, but he was scoring in a much weaker side, with the Robins finishing the season just three points above the drop zone in 17th place.

The Toon won the Championship to bounce straight back to the Premier League, but it's clear that a significant injection of quality is needed to ensure their survival.

Abraham may lack top-flight experience having made just two appearances for Chelsea's senior side, but he possesses a predatory instinct that belies his age, and his goals from in and around the six-yard box were a common sight last year.

Squawka Football hailed his efforts:

SiriusXM FC's Graeme Bailey is doubtful the striker would play a significant role at St. James' Park next season:

That could largely depend on Newcastle making further strides to improve their firepower.

Gayle will be assured a prominent role, and Aleksandar Mitrovic offers something different with his tenacity and physical presence. However, the Serbia international managed just four goals in the Championship having been given only 1,121 minutes by Benitez, who may not be overly convinced by him.

Meanwhile, Ayoze Perez typically plays in a supporting role or out on the left.

If Abraham joins Gayle and Mitrovic, and the three comprise Benitez's main striking options next season, he should receive plenty of time on the pitch—likely more than he would have gained by staying at Chelsea.

The Blues will also stand to benefit from that experience, and a successful year for Abraham will either give them another forward option in 2018 or a valuable asset to sell.