Newcastle United are aiming to trump Sunderland for Manchester United defender Jonny Evans.

The Journal says Newcastle have been paying close attention to his displays at the Stadium of Light and, after being handed several glowing reports of his progress, they are prepared to firm up their interest if Manchester United decide to sell Evans or make him available on loan once more.

The Northern Ireland international certainly fits the blueprint of the young, up-and-coming players that owner Mike Ashley wants the club to concentrate their recruitment efforts on - and with a value in the region of £7m he would not wipe out United's transfer fund.