Ireland has struggled to rediscover his best form this season since his move to Villa from Manchester City last summer.
The most recent of his 12 appearances for the club came in a 3-0 defeat by Liverpool on 6 December.
Newcastle are hopeful they can finalise the deal before the Premier League transfer window closes at 2300 GMT on Monday.
His body language has been bad when he's played but I think a fresh start up north could see the best of him
DLO
If the move goes ahead, Ireland could make his debut at Fulham on Wednesday evening.
His first appearance for Villa was against Newcastle at St James' Park on 22 August, a game which he will not remember fondly as the Magpies eased to a 6-0 win.
Source: BBC Sport
Source: BBC Sport