Newcastle United are continuing to send scouts to watch Blackburn Rovers, with teenage midfielder Adam Wharton of particular interest.
Sporting director Dan Ashworth and scout Mick Tait have both been to Ewood Park in recent weeks to check on the 18-year-old, who has caught the eye in his 21 senior appearances this season.
However, we understand Blackburn are determined to keep Wharton at the club until that number reaches closer to 100 and they believe his development is best served playing regular football with them.
That has not stopped the likes of Newcastle returning reports on the ball-playing left-footer, who has been described to Mail Sport as a 'taller Jack Wilshere, who can play and tackle'.