DOUGIE Freedman is investigating a number of options before deciding whether to go for Newcastle United winger Sammy Ameobi.

The Wanderers boss wants another winger on board before the start of the season but has not yet spoken to Alan Pardew about a loan move for the England Under-21 international.

Newcastle have indicated Ameobi could be available but Freedman would ideally like a permanent signing and is currently looking at alternatives – at home and abroad – within his budget.

After securing two free transfers in defenders Marc Tierney and Alex Baptiste, the only cash spent so far this summer will be on minimal tribunal fees for youngsters Hayden White, Conor Wilkinson and, eventually, Rob Hall.

Fans are eager to see investment in the squad but targets such as Jay Spearing have so far proved out of the club’s financial reach.

If Wanderers are to get involved with the Liverpool midfielder, it now looks highly likely they will gamble on him still being available towards the end of the transfer window and speak with the Anfield club about a loan deal.

There is also some financial uncertainty in the Whites’ attempt to bring Jermaine Beckford to the Reebok from Leicester City, with the Midlands club still insistent that they will command a fee for the 29-year-old instead of negotiating a settlement for the remaining two years of his contract.

The Foxes owe £1million to Everton if the striker plays just one more competitive game for the club, leaving him in limbo for the time being.

Wanderers squad fly back from Spain today ahead of Tuesday’s opening pre-season friendly against Rotherham United at the New York Stadium.

Chung-Yong Lee and Marvin Sordell are expected to rejoin the squad on Monday after being given extended time off over the summer because of their international commitments.