Former Newcastle United forward Nile Ranger on verge of Notts County short-term deal?

Notts County are reported to be on the verge of signing striker Nile Ranger on a short-term contract until the end of the season.

The 26-year-old is a free agent, having been released by Southend United in January due to disciplinary issues.

Notts confirmed that they were monitoring Ranger with a view to a potential move in February following the injury to loanee Mason Bennett, who was forced to return to parent club Derby County.

Although a move did not materialise back then, County's stuttering form - albeit combined with the still plausible possibility of a top-three finish - has reportedly led to the club hierarchy taking the plunge in hope of Ranger weighing in with several crucial goals.

Our sources say Ranger is to be offered a short-term deal which runs until the start of June, thus including the playoffs, with the option of a further season - but there is also a strict "professionalism" clause which could see the player dismissed should he step out of line off the pitch.

Notts boss Kevin Nolan has worked with Ranger before, when the two were at Newcastle United, and although he acknowledges the forward's off-the-pitch issues, he admits Ranger is "a lovely kid".

Shola Ameobi and Alan Smith also plied their trade at St James' Park and are said to be eager to help their former colleague get his career back on track - and help Notts up into League One in the process.

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