Newcastle United are set to rekindle their long-held interest in West Ham United defender James Tomkins, according to a report. The Mirror claim that the 26-year-old could be available for transfer this summer and that the Magpies are keeping an eye on his east London situation. Long-tracked by Newcastle's chief scout Graham Carr, Tomkins was close to move to St James' Park two summers ago as he was also a firm favourite of Alan Pardew, only for it to fall through at the final hour. Able to play at centre-back, defensive-midfield and, if necessary, full-back, Tomkins would add versatility to Newcastle - something the Magpies hierarchy cherish in potential recruits. At 6ft 3in he would also offer some added height and power to McClaren's defensive options. And, with more than 100 Premier League appearances to his name, he is one of the rare names on Newcastle's summer defensive shopping list with previous English top-flight experience. Essex-born Tomkins rose through the youth ranks at West Ham and made his debut back in 2008, as well as appearing seven times on loan at Derby County. In all, Tomkins has made 214 appearances for West Ham, scoring on 10 occasions. He was also capped 10 times at England Under-21 level and twice by Great Britain ahead of the London 2012 Olympics. For all the latest NUFC News, Views and Transfers make sure to follow whatculture.com/NUFC on Twitter and Facebook.
NUFC editor for WhatCulture.com/NUFC. History graduate (University of Edinburgh) and NCTJ-trained journalist. I love sports, hopelessly following Newcastle United and Newcastle Falcons. My pastimes include watching and attending sports matches religiously, reading spy books and sampling ales.
