In the middle of a summer during which he has again been linked with a move away from St James' Park, James Milner is angling for an improved contract with Newcastle United. The England Under-21 winger agreed an enhanced four-year deal 12 months ago but is seeking what he regards as his market worth.

As has become traditional during transfer windows, Milner has been courted assiduously, by Aston Villa, where he spent a successful season on loan in 2005-06, and has been monitored by Liverpool. Despite the arrival from Mallorca of Jonás Gutiérrez, a rival for Milner's position, Newcastle have made it clear that they do not want to sell the 22-year-old.

Milner is keen to continue his footballing education under Kevin Keegan, the manager, but he believes that he deserves a pay rise. Within the past year, players such as Alan Smith, Joey Barton and Claudio Caçapa have arrived at Newcastle on high wages and offered questionable value for money, while Milner, who is not among the biggest earners, is a hardworking, talented and popular member of the squad.

At a time when wage restraint is a theme on Tyneside, Milner's timing can be regarded as imperfect. His agent first made contact with club officials several weeks ago, but no meetings have been scheduled. Milner does, however, fit the player profile that the club are keen to nurture: young, hungry and eager to improve.

Newcastle could argue that they have more pressing contractual matters to attend to, with Michael Owen, the striker, and Steve Harper, the goalkeeper, about to enter the final season of their respective deals.

In the case of Owen, player and club have reiterated their eagerness to reach a successful outcome and the striker's advisers have informed Newcastle of their ballpark requirements. More talks are scheduled to take place before the start of the new campaign.