Everton, Newcastle United linked with January bids for Mark Noble

Everton and Newcastle United have been linked with January bids for West Ham United midfielder Mark Noble.

Blues boss Roberto Martinez sees the 26-year-old as a potential alternative to Gareth Barry should he fail to sign the loan star on a permanent deal, talkSPORT claims.

Newcastle manager Alan Pardew, who coached Noble during his tenure at the Hammers, is said to still admire the player and be keen to reteam with him.

However, both sides could face a battle to secure his signature as he agreed to a new long-term deal at Upton Park last year.