Newcastle United are moving for QPR defender Christopher Samba.

The Daily Star Sunday says relegated QPR are confident they can keep their giant centre-back as they bid to return to the top flight at the first attempt.

Toon boss Alan Pardew is an admirer of Samba, 29 but his £100,000-a-week wages represent a major problem.

The Geordies are also keen on QPR's France striker Loic Remy, 26, but he has been bailed until September following a rape allegation, which he denies.

To pursue those deals, Newcastle would have to stump up £20million plus huge wages.