Newcastle United still have Sochaux striker Modibo Maiga as their top January target.

The Sunday Sun says United scouts have watched Sochaux twice since the transfer window slammed shut, despite Maiga's public vow to stay at the club for the rest of the season.

The Malian has hit form, scoring twice in two games, and added two for Sochaux against Toulouse last night, and United remain very interested in a player who fulfils one of their main recruitment criteria - being under 26.