Stoke boss Tony Pulis is closing in on the double deadline-day capture of Newcastle striker Shola Ameobi and Derby midfielder Stephen Pearson.The Championship leaders have been desperately trying to add to their squad ahead of Thursday's 5pm loan deadline and a host of strikers from the Premier League have been linked.
It is believed Fulham's Diomansy Kamara was close to joining late last week but the deal fell through and with Pulis unable to resurrect it, he has now turned to Ameobi to boost his striking options.
The 26-year-old has made 135 stars and 95 substitute appearances for Newcastle, scoring 46 goals, but has played only twice since Kevin Keegan returned to the club.
Ipswich and Norwich were also in the hunt for the former England Under-21 international but City chairman Peter Coates has been working overtime to secure the striker and he will now sign on loan for the rest of the season.
Meanwhile Pulis is reportedly also close to landing Derby's Pearson, a player he has admired for some time, with a view to a permanent move in the summer.
Salif Diao could be set for a spell on the sidelines and Pulis is determined to take no chances with his side just six games away from the Premier League.
The Welsman was hoping to make a third signing - an experienced defender - according to the Stoke Sentinel, but that deal is now off after the player's club refused to do any further business.
Pulis said of the last-gasp activity: "We have been working round the clock to get something done.
"It's never easy dealing with players, agents, managers and what have you, but we're doing our best to get something done.
"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. But you can't rest on any laurels in this game and we're all trying to give it our best shot."
More Football News from TEAMtalk
