Tottenham have been linked with a move Newcastle United midfielder Joey Barton.

The midfielder, who has 12 months remaining on his current contract, has been told he can leave St. James’ Park for free following a Twitter outburst criticising the direction the club is taking.

Spurs are reported favourites to sign the 28-year-old who is also attracting interest from Arsenal and Stoke City.

Interest in Barton will surely cool talk of any move for West Ham United midfielder Scott Parker, who looks all but set to stay at Upton Park.