Magpies want Rozehnal

It is understood the Magpies have tabled a £2million bid for the Paris St Germain player, who has made no secret of his desire to play in the Barclays Premiership.

The 26-year-old is one of several defenders being targeted by manager Sam Allardyce as he attempts to strengthen his resources at the back.

Rozehnal began his career in his home country with Sigma Olomouc and twice won the Belgian title with Bruges before his move to PSG in 2005.

Allardyce has made his defence a priority after landing striker Mark Viduka last week and all-but tying up a £5.5million swoop for Manchester City midfielder Joey Barton.

That deal is being held up by a row between the player and City over a £300,000 loyalty payment, but the Magpies boss is wasting no time as he waits for that matter to be resolved.

Allardyce is keen to lure out-of-contract Bolton defender Tal Ben Haim to St James' Park amid competition from Wanderers and Chelsea, who were heavily linked with the 25-year-old Israel international during the January transfer window.

The club have also enquired about the availability of 29-year-old Marseille skipper Habib Beye, while Liverpool's Sami Hyypia remains high on the list. However, Newcastle are unlikely to pursue their interest in Wigan left-back Leighton Baines after his club valued him at £5million.

The 22-year-old, who played in England's 0-0 draw with the Czech Republic at the European Under-21 Championships last night, has been tracked by the Magpies.

But Wigan's valuation and Allardyce's search for players capable of dealing with an aerial threat means they are likely to look elsewhere.