Wanderers are aiming to fend off the advances of Newcastle United to bring Jack Wilshere back to the Reebok next season.

The Arsenal youngster has indicated that he would be open to a return to the North West should he fail to receive guarantees of first team football at the Emirates.

Owen Coyle has already posed the question to Gunners boss Arsene Wenger, with the intention of again making him the fulcrum of his midfield plans for at least the first six months of the campaign.

But the newly-promoted Magpies have emerged as a surprise rival for his signature, following an unsuccessful attempt to lure him to St James’ Park back in January.

The 18-year-old playmaker played a major part in Wanderers’ successful bid for safety after turning down a move to the Championship four months ago.

He has stated his intention to find more first team action in the Premier League again next season, and considering his form for Wanderers, there is unlikely to be a shortage of suitors