Newcastle close in on Tomkins deal

Newcastle are closing in on the signing of defender James Tomkins from West Ham in January. The 22 year old is being chased by former manager Alan Pardew, who sees Tomkins as a replacement for injured Steve Taylor.

Pardew worked with Tomkins whilst managing West Ham back in 2009, and so knows the England under-21 very well. Pardew is preparing a 4.5m GBP offer for the defender, comfortable playing at both right back or in centre back.


The 6 foot 3 defender is expected to eventually make the step up at international level, and play for the full England national team. West Ham are desperate to keep hold of Tomkins, though. Manager Sam Allardyce admitted this week that he thought it would be a mistake if the Hammers decided to part with their star defender.