Newcastle United are set to pounce on Rangers striker Kris Boyd.

The Championship league leaders are keen to bring in the former Kilmarnock man in January but will only pursue him if they decide against giving current loanee Marlon Harewood an extension.

Boyd's Rangers contract expires next summer so the Magpies see it a good time to bring him in but Harewood's desire for a stay until at least that time may force Chris Hughton to think twice.

Harewood's agent Phil Sproson said: "Marlon has gradually built on every performance to get stronger and fitter and his confidence is now soaring.

"Marlon and I appreciate he had a slow start at Newcastle due to injury, a shortened pre-season and lack of first team football.

"But ideally he would like to stay at Newcastle until the summer at least."