Newcastle United are joining the battle for Aston Villa fullback Nicky Shorey.

The People says Toon are willing to exchange him with their unsettled Frenchman Charles N'Zogbia.

Villa boss Martin O'Neill is willing to flog England international Shorey, five months after signing him.

And Toon executive director Dennis Wise, desperate to sign a left-back in the transfer window, has joined the race for the player.

N'Zogbia, who can operate at left-back or on the left of midfield, has made it clear that he wants to leave Newcastle this month.