Andy Carroll continues to be the subject of interest from former club Newcastle United.

The West Ham United centre-forward has already been linked with a mooted return to St James' Park recently but fresh reports from the Daily Mirror suggest the Magpies are again showing considerable interest.

The report also suggests that Tyne-Wear derby rivals Sunderland have also thrown their hat in the ring for 26-year-old Carroll who has only recently returned to the Hammers line-up following an injury absence.

It is believed that West Ham are willing to offload Carroll for around £18million but will need to first sell before they can bring in any replacement.

Former Liverpool flop Carroll is known to be keen on a hometown return with Newcastle and is likely to shun any interest from the Black Cats but it remains to be seen whether or not the Toon are serious about the reported pursuit.