Newcastle United are yet to return to Liverpool since making an initial loan enquiry for Andy Carroll two weeks ago.

West Ham United were reported to have struck terms for Carroll, though denied the claims last night.

The People says that after initially wanting to take Carroll (inset) back from Liverpool on a season's loan, with a view to a permanent move, Newcastle have not considered taking it any further.

But a club source said: "If Ba walks on Tuesday, it will change the Carroll situation."