Newman agrees to drive for Stewart-Haas

Ryan Newman, driver of the No. 12 Penske Dodge, has agreed verbally to drive for Stewart-Haas Racing next season, according to ESPN.com sources.

The 30-year-old has been in limbo for a 2009 driver's seat since declaring that he and Penske Racing were parting ways. Joe Gibbs Racing President J.D. Gibbs confirmed Sunday that Newman was not being considered for a ride at JGR next season.

Once a deal is signed, Newman will drive the No. 4 car, and two-time Sprint Cup champion Tony Stewart will be in the No. 14 for Stewart-Haas.

Stewart spokesman Mike Arning told ESPN.com that talks are ongoing with several drivers and that "any verbal agreement with a particular driver is premature."

One factor that makes the deal more attractive for Newman would be that his former Penske crew chief, Matt Borland, who guided Newman to 12 of his 13 Cup victories, is currently the competition director at Stewart-Haas.