NEWCASTLE ARE UNDERSTOOD to be attempting a bid to snatch Reading defender Alex Pearce from under Liverpool’s noses, according to the Shields Gazette.
The Irish international’s contract expires this summer, with Liverpool having long been linked with a move for the player.
Pearce was made captain of Reading during Rodgers’ tenure as manager there, and the Liverpool boss is on the lookout for a central defender with their veteran centre-back Jamie Carragher having just retired.
It is understood that the Anfield club are close to concluding a deal for the player, who was dropped from Reading’s first team earlier this year after turning down the chance to sign a new contract.
However, reports suggest Newcastle boss Alan Pardew is keen on hijacking the move, particularly as captain Fabricio Coloccini’s future is uncertain.
