Newcastle United made a new check on Ajax midfielder Vurnon Anita last night.

Toon scouts checked on Anita in action against Norwich City. But Sunderland are breathing hard down the necks of the Magpies as they too pursue the versatile midfielder.

The Evening Chronicle says Anita is hungry to sign for United but as yet Newcastle are yet to bid the £7million fee that will get the wheels in motion on the deal.