NEWCASTLE United have been alerted to goalkeeper Richard Wright's contract wrangle with newly-promoted Ipswich Town.

England keeper Wright's current deal runs out in a year's time and the Suffolk club are eager to tie him to a long-term contract as they gear up for their return to the Premiership.

Magpies manager Bobby Robson, who was in charge at Portman Road for 13 years, always has an eye on developments at his old club and is known to be a big admirer of £5m-rated Wright.

But Ipswich boss George Burley, one of Robson's former charges, wants Wright to stop stalling and sign a new deal. Burley said: "If Richard won't sign, he will be put up for sale.''

United would face fierce competition if 22-year-old Wright was made available, with Chelsea likely to lead the chase for his signature.

With Dutchman John Karelse and Frenchman Lionel Perez surplus to requirements, Robson is seeking a keeper to compete alongside Shay Given and Steve Harper.

And 32-year-old former Newcastle favourite Pavel Srnicek would jump at the chance to return to St James' Park after being handed a free transfer by relegated Sheffield Wednesday.

Czech Republic keeper Srnicek, who has been on duty at Euro 2000, became an adopted Geordie during his eight years on Tyneside.