Newcastle United boss Alan Pardew admits he's interested in West Bromwich Albion striker Shane Long.
Pardew has admitted he has tried several times to sign Long.
He said: "He's a striker I've been interested in. I've always been well aware of him through my Reading connections and a couple of times, I have tried to bring him to this football club.
"He's in really good form right now. He's a dangerous player, really works hard and he has a flair about his game. For us, it is very important, we do not let him have an opportunity, particularly, our back four dwelling on the ball because he really does work you hard with or without the ball.
"There was genuine interest. He was always in and around the players we talked about bringing in. Within the Premier League managers, we all respect Shane. His form has not gone unnoticed but maybe with fans of other clubs."
