Newcastle United 'given permission to speak to Wigan Athletic's Arouna Kone'

Wigan Athletic have granted Newcastle United permission to speak to striker Arouna Kone about a possible transfer, according to reports.

The 29-year-old Ivory Coast international will be able to discuss terms with the Tyneside club, although Everton – now managed by former Wigan boss Roberto Martinez - are said to remain in the hunt for his signature, according to PA Sport.

Everton had been favourites to sign the forward and current Latics manager Owen Coyle said that Kone wanted to move to Goodison Park, but reports in the North-East appear to hint at a change of developments.

It is suggested that Kone has a £5m release clause in his contract that would allow him to leave the Championship club.

This would represent a shift in Newcastle's transfer policy since Joe Kinnear was appointed director of football at St James' Park.

Prior to his appointment, chief scout Graham Carr was involved in recruitment of players, which led to an influx of French players.