Toon linked with Cottage raid

Newcastle are being linked with a shock swoop for Fulham striker David Healy who is also reportedly wanted by Sunderland.

The north-east rivals could be set to go head to head to try and land the Northern Ireland international who has struggled to find his best form at Craven Cottage.

The Black Cats are said to be ready to include Dickson Etuhu in any deal but with the Magpies looking to supplement their front-line options, the situation has become clouded.

In addition, it is claimed executive director of football Dennis Wise, who managed Healy at Leeds, will prove to be the ace in Newcastle's pack.

Newcastle are currently without Mark Viduka because of Achilles trouble while Michael Owen and Obafemi Martins have both also endured injury-affected close seasons.