According to widespread reports, Newcastle United manager Kevin Keegan is keen to sign Manchester City central defender Richard Dunne.

Keegan has formerly worked with the Republic of Ireland international in his days as City boss, and is said to have made the 28-year-old City captain his No 1 transfer target.

The Toon, who are making a strong finish to the season, are likely to spend heavily in the summer transfer market to bolster the squad as Keegan aims to lift the Tynesiders after pulling them out from the struggle to survive in the Premiership.

The Evening Chronicle says “the Dublin-born defender could double his £28,000 a week wages by switching to St James’s Park.

“Dunne’s contract expires in 13 months and, despite the efforts of (City boss Sven-Goran) Eriksson, his new one still lies unsigned at Eastlands.”