Newcastle United manager Alan Pardew has said that the club are not looking to sell Joey Barton. West Ham have targeted a move for midfield dynamo Barton when the transfer window reopens next month.

Newcastle are thought to have rejected West Ham’s opening gambit, but the Hammers are believed to be ready to come back with an improved offer for the former Manchester City man.

Pardew has been impressed by Barton this season and he revealed he plans to hold talks with the midfielder over his future.

“He is a big part of my plans,” Pardew said of Barton. “I am going to speak to Joey because there is no doubt this season has been a real turnaround for him.

Stephen Warnock and Wayne Bridge have also been linked to the club.