Wigan Athletic boss Steve Bruce is planning a £16 million bid for Newcastle United striker Michael Owen.

The Journal says having joined forces this week, Bruce and Dave Whelan have revived their interest in the former Liverpool favourite.

Having taken charge at the JJB Stadium this week, Bruce has drawn up an ambitious shopping list as he attempts to recruit the players he feels are required to guarantee Premier League survival. Owen's name is understood to feature on it.

Wigan's Corbridge-born boss - then in charge at Birmingham - tried to sign the striker prior to his record-breaking move to St James's Park from Real Madrid in 2005. Owen also rejected an offer from Latics chairman Dave Whelan in order to join Newcastle.