Toon eye up Bentley

Newcastle are hoping to win the race for David Bentley, Front News understands.

Tottenham have already made it clear they are happy to see the England international move on.

And there has been no shortage of interest with the likes of Aston Villa, West Ham, Fulham and former club Blackburn all hoping to land his signature.

But Newcastle, who have also enquired about Bentley's team-mate Robbie Keane, are now making a real effort to try and lure the winger to the North East.

It is believed Bentley would rather stay closer to his Southern roots, but he has played in the North before and could yet be tempted to move again.

Tottenham have insisted that they will only allow Bentley, like Keane, to leave on a permanent basis but it remains to be seen if any club will meet their demands.