Newcastle United and Sunderland are going head-to-head in January for Sochaux star Modibo Maiga.

The Sunday Mirror says Newcastle were bitterly disappointed not to land him before the August transfer window closed.

Maiga, who was involved in a strike row with his club in August, is determined to land a dream move to the Premier League and named Newcastle as his preferred destination.

But the Black Cats interest could spark a North-East bidding war.

Newcastle thought they had all but completed a £7m deal for Maiga before Sochaux began playing hard ball over the fee.