James Tomkins could be leaving the Boleyn Ground this summer after the club quoted a price for the defender to Premier League rivals Newcastle, the Chronicle report.
Basildon-born Tomkins was in and out of the West Ham team last season after losing his place at the heart of the Irons defence to James Collins, and also struggled with shin problems which limited him to just 21 starts- meaning that any move from the Magpies would be seen as a significant financial gamble on a player who is not yet entirely proven in the Premier League.
Newcastle's priority is thought to be the acquisition of a new centre forward so will likely attempt to haggle the price for Tomkins down.
However, the 24 year old is believed to be on top of manager Alan Pardew's transfer shopping list this summer. The former West Ham boss worked with Tomkins during his time at the club and is a big fan of the Essex boy, having originally tried to bring him to St James' Park in January 2012.
Tomkins himself is thought to be open to a move to the North East, with the obvious attraction of regular Premier League football and according to sources, has openly discussed the prospect with his Hammers team mates.
By Alex Shilling, News Editor
@alexshilling
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