Newcastle United rival Liverpool for Alex Pearce

Newcastle United are reportedly weighing up a late move to hijack Liverpool's bid for out-of-contract defender Alex Pearce.

The Republic of Ireland international is available on a free transfer this summer after deciding not to accept the offer of a new deal from relegated Reading.

Pearce has been strongly tipped to join Liverpool on a free transfer for much of 2013, with Brendan Rodgers looking for options to help replace retired centre-back Jamie Carragher.

Magpies boss Alan Pardew has worries of his own in that position and is monitoring Pearce's situation closely, according to the Shields Gazette.

Despite Reading's struggles in the top flight Pearce gained plaudits for his performances at the Madejski Stadium, with the defender also scoring on his international debut.