Newcastle United are interested in Ajax defender Jan Vertonghen.

Toon boss Alan Pardew admits he's been badgered by owner Mike Ashley about buying a new centre-half and has been recommended Vertonghen by chief scout Graham Carr.

Vertonghen is also a target for Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp, though only if he can find a buyer for former Toon centre-half Sebastien Bassong.

Belgium international Vertonghen would arrive at St James' Park as a replacement for the injured Steven Taylor.