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NEWCASTLE UNITED could face surprise competition from Arsenal if Kevin Keegan decides to firm up his interest in Manchester City defender Richard Dunne this summer.

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger is keen to strengthen his defence and has earmarked Republic of Ireland defender Dunne as a potential signing.

The 28-year-old has attracted the attention of several clubs following his performances for City this season, including Newcastle.

With Sven-Goran Eriksson's days as City boss seemingly numbered, Dunne is also contemplating his future at Eastlands.

The central defender could be available for as little as £1m due to a FIFA regulation that allows him to buy out the remaining year of his contract.

And Dunne - who was sent off against Middlesbrough on Sunday - would fit the bill perfectly for Keegan, who has been informed by Newcastle owner Mike Ashley there won't be any big money moves in the summer.

However, the lure of Champions League football at the Emirates Stadium could prove too tempting to turn down for Dunne, who has been one of the best defenders in the Premier League this season.

Steven Taylor and Abdoulaye Faye form Keegan's current first choice central defensive pairing.

And while the Tynesiders also have Claudio Cacapa, Lamine Diatta and David Edgar in their ranks, a player of Dunne's top flight experience would prove a valuable addition to the Newcastle squad.

Keegan has already set about the task of reshaping his squad after telling Peter Ramage, Stephen Carr and James Troisi they will not be offered new contracts next month.

And Diatta could be the next player heading out the St James' Park exit door when his shortterm contract expires this summer.

Keegan was keen to retain Ramage's services, but after failing to give the 24-year-old assurances over first-team football next season, the defender played his last game for the club at Everton on Sunday.

Easington-born Ramage, who made 68 appearances for the club, has emerged as a target for Wolves and QPR.

And Keegan admitted: "He's one of those players you would like to keep around the place.

"He's got a heart as big as Newcastle city centre and he loves the club.

"But he has to get himself a move where he can play because he's not 18 or 19 and needs to play on a consistent basis.

"But, wherever he goes, it will be their gain and our loss as a person around the place.

"I have known him three or four months, but you only need to be in his company for a week to know that he's a great lad and I wish him the best of luck."

Keegan made sure Ramage was given a good send off by the visiting Newcastle fans as the defender replaced Taylor as a 90th minute substitute at Everton.

Only the heroics of Steve Harper prevented Newcastle from suffering a heavier loss.

"It could have been five or six without Harper," said Keegan.

"He played very well and made some great saves."

11:04am Tuesday 13th May 2008

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