NEWCASTLE United have run the rule over Barnsley’s England under-21 midfielder Jacob Butterfield – as they look to play the long game on defensive target James Tomkins of West Ham.

The Journal can reveal United number two John Carver was in attendance at Oakwell on Saturday to watch Butterfield, out of contract at the end of the season and who has been earning rave reviews. The young creative midfielder lasted only 15 minutes before being taken off with an injury, but Newcastle are weighing up a move for a player who fits the bill of their transfer blueprint.

The Bradford-born star faces three weeks out with knee ligament damage.

Despite only being 21, Butterfield is the Barnsley captain and has been watched by both Everton and Wolves of late.

Newcastle’s main priority is bringing in a centre-back in the window, but with doubts about Danny Guthrie’s future – he is yet to sign a new contract – they know midfield reinforcements are also required at some stage.

They could land the highly-rated midfielder at a low price as he has only a few months left on his contract and Butterfield would certainly be interested in listening to Newcastle’s offer. He said last week: “I have always thought I was good enough to play at Premier League level.

“Given the opportunity, I think I could prove that.”

Meanwhile, there is nothing imminent brewing in United’s defender hunt, although The Journal understands a fresh move for West Ham’s Tomkins has not been ruled out.

While United are not at an advanced stage with any deal yet, few teams in the Premier League are as the division’s top clubs look set to play a waiting game.