CHECK out the latest soccer gossip

NEWCASTLE are set to offer Southampton £4 million plus Lomano Lua Lua for the services of the Premiership's top goalscorer James Beattie.

Bobby Robson and Alan Shearer both see big potential in the Southampton striker, and are keen to blood him at the club before Shearer hangs up his boots.

Diego to go-go

DIEGO Simeone wants a move to the Premiership having told Lazio that he wants more money or will leave. One club said to be interested are Middlesbrough, who have the funds to pay his £60,000 per week wage bill.

Spurs Phill in

KEVIN Phillips will join Tottenham for £4 million as the striker has taken offence at public jibes made by Howard Wilkinson concerning his poor recent scoring record. Glenn Hoddle has been a long time admirer, and will then allow Les Ferdinand to join Wolves for a nominal fee.

Hou's lovin Kew

GERARD Houllier could make a surprise bid for Leeds star Harry Kewell in a bid to fill two problem areas. The Aussie can play as a left winger or centre forward and Houllier would like options in both those positions to end Liverpool's barren run. Kewell would cost Leeds around £10 million.

Keegan's Bati boy

MANCHESTER City could hi-jack West Ham's bid to bring Gabriel Batistuta to England. Glenn Roeder has tracked the Roma forward for some time but the Argentinian would prefer to avoid a relegation battle. Kevin Keegan has yet to decide on the necessity of bringing in Batigol with his extravagant wage demands and Latin temprament.

Giv us a break

CELTIC may take advantage of Shay Given's drop in form by making a £4 million bid for the goalkeeper. Given has been one of the best stoppers in the Premiership for a number of seasons, but with Steve Harper ready to take over the number one jersey at St James' Park, Celtic may get their man for a bargain price.

Matt's all that

CHELSEA are to splash out £4.5 million on Portsmouth full-back Matt Taylor.

The left-sided defender has earned rave reviews in helping Pompey to the top of the First Division and Claudio Ranieiri is still keen to take on English players.