Magpies could lose two key defenders

ARSENAL and West Ham United are ready to test Newcastle United's resolve to keep first-choice defensive pairing Sébastien Bassong and Steven Taylor by formalising their interest in the duo imminently.

Hopes are rising that the uncertainty which has surrounded the club's future since relegation to the Championship will lift in the next few days - with "decisive" movement expected on the unresolved ownership and management issues before the start of pre-season training next week. Both serious bidders favour Alan Shearer's claims to be manager which should pave the way for his belated appointment - but his first task will be to ward off interest in Bassong and Taylor.

West Ham, who have former Newcastle number two Steve Clarke on their coaching staff, are at the head of a clutch of clubs interested in Taylor, while Arsenal are keen on Frenchman Bassong.

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