By Matthew Jones
May 30 2003

Newcastle United have today ended their interest in Middlesbrough and England international defender, Gareth Southgate. It is believed that they are after Stepehn Carr of Spur's instead. Newcastle United appear to hvae ended thier interest in Middlesbrough defender, Gareth Southgate, and instead are going to attempt to but Tottemham Hotspur right-back, Stephen Carr.

It was reported that Newcastle would be bidding for the England international, who was priced at £8M. Sir Bobby wanted to pay £3M for him, and has decided to let the 32-year-old "go".

Manchester United and Liverpool are still interested in Southgate, but Middlesbrough are prepared to battle to keep him in the Summer.

Robson will however, be targetting Spur's defender Stephen Carr. He might sign another centre-back when the transfer window opens, but at the moment, signing Carr and Emerton are his main priorities.

Carr is 26 years old and is a dangerous attacking fullback. He is a favourite with the Spur's fans and has been at White Hart Lane for 10 years.

His contract expires in 2004, and with Arsenal also interested in him, a £4M bid should secure him for Newcastle.

Newcastle United are also going to make a move for Brett Emerton. They have been linked with him recently, and reports are getting stronger.

With Emerton's team, Feyenoord, failing to make the Champions League it is believed that Emerton wishes a move so that he can play in Europe.

An £8M offer for Emerton was rejected last August, but Emerton is now priced at just £4M due to his contract running out in a years time. Feyenoord do not want to loost him for nothing.

If we do sign Emerton, it will push Solano closer to the exit. Solano has been recently linked with Scottish giants, Celtic.

Darren Bent is also a target for Newcastle. They tried to sign the 19-year-old in January, but Ipswich claim not to have had a bit this time round.

The Ipswich chairman does not think there will be a bid for Bent.

Charlton Athletic are ready to listen to offers for England international fullback Paul Konchesky.

Addicks boss Alan Curbishley is willing to sacrifice the youngster to help fund his summer transfer plans.

Liverpool, Newcastle and Tottenham are all chasing the left-sided defender, with Charlton valuing him at £3 million.