The 26-year-old former England Under-21 international has struggled for regular first-team action with the Magpies in recent times, having fallen behind Michael Owen, Mark Viduka, Obafemi Martins and Alan Smith in the pecking order.

Ameobi's current contract at St James' Park runs out at the end of next season, with Stoke thought to be interested in a permanent deal should they secure promotion.

Potters boss Tony Pulis told The Sentinel: "We have been working round the clock to get something done. It's never easy dealing with players, agents, managers and what have you.

"We've been looking at all areas of the field because of the threat of injuries and suspensions disrupting things at a critical time of the season.

"It's not a case of replacing what we have, but adding to it, because what the players have achieved so far speaks for itself."

Ameobi has scored 46 goals in 230 outings for the Tynesiders, but has made just eight appearances this term.