Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe has cooled talk that a deal for Manchester United's Cumbrian star Dean Henderson is close.

Despite reports yesterday suggesting a move for the goalkeeper was looking increasingly likely, Howe insisted there was nothing imminent.

The Manchester Evening News yesterday said Henderson had been to Newcastle for talks and that discussions were ongoing over either a loan or permanent move.

Howe, though, has told reporters in the north east that the Saudi-backed Magpies are not currently on the brink of signing any player.

"No, we're not close to signing anybody at this moment in time," he said.

"We're not at an advanced stage with any of that.

"It's very difficult for me to comment on individual players because I'd be giving you an answer on every target.

"But that [report] is far from the truth."

Newcastle have been linked with Henderson for some time, having been close to signing the Whitehaven star in January.

The keeper is keen to return to first-team football after a season spend as understudy to David de Gea at Old Trafford.

Henderson is also keen to reignite his England prospects ahea dof this year's World Cup in Qatar.

Fans of Carlisle United, meanwhile, remain on tenterhooks over the prospect of a big-money move for the Cumbrian.

The Blues would be set to benefit through a sell-on clause under the terms of his move from Carlisle's academy to Man Utd in 2011.