The 35-year-old has been without a club since leaving Notts County one game into a five-year contract with the League Two side.

But the former England defender has hinted he would be interested in a move to Tyneside.

Speaking of Sol Campbell's reported interest in the club, Hughton said yesterday: "Sol was at a function yesterday and he was asked the question.

"He has, on a couple of occasions, shown a desire to come to Newcastle.

"We are not aware what the situation is at the moment.

"As far as we know, he's still a Notts County player on their registration.

"All the things we are aware of - most of it is coming from Sol."

Former Tottenham and Arsenal centre-back Campbell has been quoted as saying: "It (Newcastle) would be a great move for me, so who knows?

"I've got to keep on training, and hopefully people will sort things behind the scenes so I can get going and play football. That's all I want to do."