Harper's current contract is due to expire at the end of next season, and reports have linked him with a move away from St James' Park.

"Realistically we are looking at the top eight but hopefully it can be the top six," the 33 year old told the Evening Chronicle.

"We finished 12th last year. And we've got to get back into the top half of the table.

"It won't happen overnight. We have to first look to get back in the top six at some stage and then build year on year."