Liverpool are ready to pounce for unsettled Newcastle United striker Demba Ba.

The Daily Star Sunday says such a deal could result in another ­sensational twist, as Newcastle boss Alan Pardew considers grabbing former Toon hero Andy Carroll, whose £35million move to Anfield has ended with him being shipped out on loan.

Ba's representatives have been demanding a bigger pay packet than his current £50,000 a week. And it is felt on Tyneside that the club have had enough of Ba's ­posturings, especially the threats of his agent Alex Gontran.

Liverpool look favourites to cash in on the uncertainty by invoking a £7.5m get-out clause in Ba's contract.

The Reds also have an option to recall Carroll, 23, from his loan period at West Ham in January.

And Newcastle would love to discuss bringing the pony-tailed striker back to the North East.