Newcastle United have made a move for Rennes’ Stephane Mbia. The Magpies have offered £5million for the African midfileder with Joe Kinnear eager to strengthen this area of his side: “We put a bid in for Stephane Mbia earlier in the week with an offer of £5million, that is a permanent deal,” the Newcastle boss informed reporters.
The Cameroon internationalist would bring some much needed quality to St. James’ Park and Kinnear is an admirer of Mbia’s capabilities: “He’s a fantastic player.”
However, it appears that any hopes Newcastle had of landing Lucas Neill from West Ham have been dashed with the Hammers adamant that the Australian defender is not for sale.
A spokesman for the Tyneside club confirmed that the deal was off: “With regards to Lucas Neill, West Ham United have made it clear that he is a player they value as a highly important member of their squad and who they have no desire to sell.
“Newcastle United respect West Ham’s position and will therefore not be pursuing this matter.”
Jonathan Simmons
