Newcastle United senior scout Mick Tait was at Sunderland's Stadium of Light this weekend.
The Magpies are pushing ahead with their plans to recruit new players in the summer.
Per Chronicle Live, Newcastle have been assessing the likes of Jarrad Branthwaite from Everton.
They were also assessing Chris Rigg, who is a 16-year-old academy star at Sunderland.
He has not yet agreed to a professional deal, which makes him an appealing signing.
The youngster is also wanted by the likes of Manchester City and Liverpool.