Demba Ba is key to Newcastle United landing Liverpool striker Andy Carroll.

The Sunday Express says only if Ba's release clause - under which he can leave for £7m - is activated by Tuesday's midnight deadline will Newcastle United make a move for their ex-striker.

Carroll does not want to move to West Ham United even though Hammers manager Sam Allardyce is prepared to build his Premier League assault around him.

Carroll would like to stay and prove himself to new Anfield boss Brendan Rodgers.