NEWCASTLE and Portsmouth are set to battle for Freddie Ljungberg this summer.

The Swedish midfielder is viewed as surplus to requirements by Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger - and that has alerted Pompey boss Harry Redknapp.

With just one year left on his contract and at the age of 30, Ljungberg could prove to be the bargain signing of the transfer window.

He is captain of his country and has a former Arsenal team-mate down at Fratton Park in Sol Campbell, who has enjoyed an impressive first season at Portsmouth.

But competition for Ljungberg could well come from Newcastle once Sam Allardyce is confirmed as the new manager at St James' Park.

Ljungberg has said he wants to stay at Arsenal but knows he must be involved in regular action if he is to lead his nation in Euro 2008.