Six and a half games a season is tough going for the Easington-born 'keeper, and it seems as though Liverpool are wasting their time trying to sign him to be understudy to Jose Reina.
The 33-year-old is enjoying first team action, standing in for the injured Shay Given, and Kevin Keegan says he wants him to stay at St James' Park.
Keegan: "I am not looking for him to go out, though I'm sure he would come and see me if Liverpool come and knock on his door.
"I'm not surprised if other teams are interested. Steve Harper is a very, very good goalkeeper.
"Everyone has always known that, but it's always been hidden by the fact he has not played."