Newcastle United Bid In Talk For Attacker Played Down
JAKE DAVIE Talk in Spain that Newcastle United have gone in with an offer for Barcelona attacker Ferran Torres is wide of the mark, according to the Daily Telegraph.
Eddie Howe is looking to boost his attacking options for next season and the Magpies are suggested to want Torres to arrive at St James’ Park.
He has Premier League experience from his time at Manchester City and it was claimed in Spain that Newcastle have gone in with a bid of €15m plus a further €5m However, that claim is now said to be wide the mark, with no truth to the suggestion Newcastle have put a bid on the table.
It is unclear if Newcastle do want Torres and have just not yet proceeded to the stage of making a formal offer for his services, or whether there is no interest at all.
Torres made 42 appearances across all competitions for Barcelona last term and scored eleven times.
He notably struck a hat-trick against Real Betis in January, but saw a hamstring injury disrupt the latter part of his season.
Torres made 28 appearances in the Premier League during his time at Manchester City, scoring on nine occasions, and would need no time to acclimatise himself to the league if he does return to England.
The 33-year-old, who is currently in his third spell with the club, made 37 League One appearances last season, scoring two goals and providing three assists.
McManaman, who has previously spent time on loan with Blackpool, was named man of the match in the 2013 FA Cup final as Wigan claimed a 1-0 victory over Manchester City.
Leonard attracting interest
Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Marc Leonard looks set to make a permanent move this summer after spending the last two seasons on loan with Northampton Town.