Newcastle and Reading are in competition to sign Barnsley's £2m-rated 21-year-old midfielder Jacob Butterfield.

Newcastle could fork out £2m for Barnsley captain Jacob Butterfield, 21, despite the midfielder's knee ligament injury ruling him out of action until the start of next season. The Magpies are still willing to sign the player, agree compensation with the Tykes and take up Butterfield's rehabilitation programme.

Aston Villa boss Alex McLeish is ready to make a move for Barnsley's young skipper Jacob Butterfield, who is valued at about £2m.

Everton, West Brom and Fulham are set to battle it out for the signature of 21-year-old Barnsley midfielder Jacob Butterfield