Newcastle United are interested in Joel Asoro and Josh Maja from fierce rivals Sunderland, with the duo out of contract in the summer.

The teenage pair have been two of few positives in a very poor season for the Black Cats with a second successive relegation looking inevitable.

Chris Coleman's men are currently six points from safety with just four games to play.

And, to make matters worse for Sunderland fans, the Daily Mail are reporting that Newcastle have sent scouts to the Stadium of Light in the past few months to watch the forwards.

The report also states that the scouts believe both players are better than the current players at St. James' Park who are the same age.

Given that, Rafa Benitez could sanction a move for the pair at the end of the season. Although, the north east side could face competition for their signings, with Arsenal and Watford also said to be interested.

Yet, Sunderland have offered both new long term deals to stay at the club, with the former Wales manager telling the players that regular first-team football is better for their career development.

The Verdict

As if things weren't bad enough for Sunderland fans already, they will hate the idea of two talented youngsters swapping the red and white for the black and white of Newcastle.

You can see why Newcastle are interested in the pair as they clearly have quality and have impressed over the season.

Asoro and Maja will be focused on trying to keep Sunderland up now but they will have big decisions to make in the summer.

Thoughts, Sunderland fans? Let us know in the comments below.