Ex-Man Utd defender Eckersley wanted by Newcastle, Middlesbrough

Former Manchester United starlet Adam Eckersley is wanted back in England.

The News of the World says Newcastle and North East rivals Middlesbrough are leading the chase to sign Eckersley, now of Danish side FC Horsens.

Crystal Palace and Swansea are also monitoring the situation closely and scouts have travelled to Denmark to watch the talented youngster play this season on numerous occasions.

The cultured defender is the older brother of Richard Eckersley, who left the Red Devils for Burnley last summer.