Newcastle United target Adrian Mariappa

Newcastle United have submitted an offer for Watford defender Adrian Mariappa, according to Sky Sports News.

The 25-year-old's form this season has reportedly caught the eye of Swansea City, who were linked with making a bid this month.

However, it now appears that the Magpies have stolen a march on the Premier League rivals.

Newcastle manager Alan Pardew is said to be in the market for a centre-back, having recently lost the services of Steven Taylor for the remainder of the campaign.

Mariappa has 18 months remaining on his deal at Vicarage Road.