Some newspapers reported yesterday that Kinnear would allow Given to leave if he could sign England international David James.
But Harper has ambitions of his own and he believes he deserves the opportunity to replace Given after giving the club such loyal service.
Given and Michael Kennedy, his solicitor, will have talks with Derek Llambias, the Newcastle managing director, on Tyneside today, as City seem willing to match Newcastle's £10 million valuation.
Harper's present deal expires at the end of the season.