The 26-year-old was thought to be surplus to requirements at St James’ Park, following the arrival of Mathieu Debuchy from Lille, and could be allowed to leave this January.
But Alan Pardew is looking to strengthen his squad and Simpson is still well ahead of youngsters James Tavernier and Shane Ferguson for experience and ability.
Pardew knows it is going to be a tough second half to the season, and he NEEDS Simpson.
West Ham are rumoured to be leading the race for his signature, but don't expect it to happen.
Simpson suffered a broken toe in the Magpies’ 7-3 defeat against Arsenal, and is not expected to return to first-team action until late January at the earliest.
Simpson was a consistent performer under Alan Pardew last term as Newcastle secured qualification for the Europa League.