West Ham United defender James Tomkins is subject of interest from Newcastle United ahead of the January transfer window, according to The Times.

The 25-year-old centre-back, who recently made his 200th outing for The Hammers in defeat against Arsenal, has impressed at the heart of West Ham's backline this season alongside Winston Ried.

And the Basildon-born former England youth international currently has 18 months left on his contract at Upton Park, meaning the Hammers will have to make a decision on his future soon.

However the current managerial upheaval at St James' Park, where former West Ham boss Alan Pardew looks set to leave for Crystal Palace, could bring an end to any interest.