"A Newcastle representative was present in Cairo to watch me in action during Egypt's World Cup qualifier with Zambia," Shawky told Al-Hayat TV.

"They were also monitoring (ENPPI and Egypt right-back) Ahmed Al-Muhammadi.

"Joining Newcastle would be a step forward. They are a very good team and have a large fan-base in England."

Shawky played just once in Middlesbrough's last eight games after falling out with coach Gareth Southgate.

Southgate was seemingly irked by comments attributed to the Egyptian midfielder that he sought to leave the Riverside.

"Yes I have problems with Southgate," Shawky told reporters on the eve of Egypt's 1-1 draw with Zambia.

The 27-year-old joined the struggling Boro in the summer of 2007 from Cairo giants Ahli but he has yet to establish himself as a first-team regular.