DAN Barlaser is set to extend his stay at Accrington Stanley until the end of the season while the Reds are also eyeing up a January move for Newcastle United defender Liam Gibson.

Stanley entertain Peterborough United in League One on Saturday looking to close the gap on the top six. That game was due to be Barlaser’s penultimate in his loan deal from Newcastle United but the 21-year-old is expected to sign up until the end of the season.

He has made 21 appearances for John Coleman’s men so far this term, scoring twice, and has established himself as first choice in the middle of midfield.

It is understood that Newcastle are pleased with his development at the Wham Stadium and feel the youngster would benefit from another six months of first team football.

The Magpies did have interest from Championship clubs in Barlaser while a host of League One sides were also keen on his signature.

But the Newcastle hierarchy believe Stanley is the right fit for the midfielder, who is under contract at St James’ Park until the summer of 2020.

Stanley have built up a strong relationship with the Magpies and also have striker Luke Charman on loan at the club.

He has struggled to make an impact at the Wham Stadium due to injury but it is believed that Newcastle would be happy to allow the 21-year-old to extend his stay in East Lancashire.

And Stanley are also keen on Newcastle youngster Liam Gibson.

The 21-year-old left back missed a chunk of football having battled back from ulcerative colitis but he has returned to feature for the club’s Under-23 side this term.

Stanley are keen on a permanent deal for the defender, who is out of contract in the summer, but would be prepared to take him on loan.

Any potential move may have to wait until Newcastle Under-23s have played Sunderland in the Checkatrade Trophy with that Tyne-Wear derby scheduled for Tuesday, January 8, with the Magpies keen to field Gibson in that fixture.

Nick Anderton has been a fixture for Stanley at left back so far this term but his loan deal from Blackpool expires next week and the 22-year-old, who was not given permission by the Seasiders to play in the FA Cup for the Reds, could be recalled by Terry McPhillips’ side.