Newcastle United are ready to make an opening offer for Manchester City defender Micah Richards.
The Daily Star Sunday says Richards, 26, has only a year remaining on his City contract and would be a bargain signing at £3million.
Newcastle, though, face stiff competition from West Bromwich Albion and Richards has also been linked with Hull.
Former England defender Richards has been strongly recommended to Baggies boss Alan Irvine by ex-City central defender Joleon Lescott.
