Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie could see Burnley pair James Tarkowski and Ben Mee joining Newcastle United at the end of the season depending on what division the two clubs are playing in.

Both players were linked with moves to St James' Park last month, and Downie thinks they could eventually link-up with Eddie Howe in the summer.

What is the latest news involving Tarkowski and Mee?

Tarkowski and Mee will be free agents at the end of this campaign. Their contracts are set to expire and there have been no signs to suggest that either player will put pen to paper on an extension.

It is hardly a surprise, as both central defenders were the subject of heavy interest from Newcastle, who are now the richest club in the world following their recent takeover.

According to the Daily Mirror, the Magpies were willing to double both Tarkowski and Mee's wages in a bid to lure them to St James' Park last month.

In the end, Burnley managed to keep hold of the two English centre-halves, but they look to have only delayed the inevitable.

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What has Downie said about Tarkowski and Mee to Newcastle?

Downie has told GIVEMESPORT that he can see Newcastle signing Tarkowski and Mee depending on how this season's relegation battle ends, with both the Tyneside club and Lancashire outfit fighting it out down at the bottom.

Speaking to GMS about Newcastle's interest in the Burnley duo, the Sky Sports journalist said: "I could see that probably happening depending on where both clubs are in terms of division. I could see that probably happening at the end of the season."

Would Tarkowski and Mee be good signings for Newcastle?

Yes. The two would bring a lot to a Newcastle defence that has conceded 44 goals in the current Premier League campaign - the second-worst record in the division.

Tarkowski, 29, and Mee, 32, have a lot of experience, making a combined 574 appearances for Burnley (203 and 371 respectively).

Together, they have helped Burnley to build a solid foundation at the back, with the Clarets having one of the best defensive records in the Premier League this season despite being bottom of the table.

Under manager Sean Dyche, they have conceded 28 goals, meaning only seven teams have conceded fewer times than the defence that is being marshalled by Tarkowski and Mee (via WhoScored).

When you take all of that into account, on free transfers, bringing in the Burnley pair could be very good business by Newcastle.