And reports from London suggest Carroll could be involved in a big-money move to Chelsea in the January transfer window.
Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti is said to be in the market for a new striker due to the form and fitness problems suffered by Didier Drogba over the course of the current campaign.
Carroll is said to be "very unhappy" at the sacking of Chris Hughton as manager on Monday.
A fee in the region of £17million has been suggested in the past, and knowing Mike Ashley ... he is sure to give any big money deal consideration.