New rumours

[kennethlindheim]

Valencia are being linked with a surprise move for Newcastle winger Laurent Robert.

Robert's future at Newcastle remains uncertain, with the Frenchman unable to command a regular place under Graeme Souness.

The left-sided midfielder has been left on the bench by Souness for most of the games he has been in charge of since taking over from Sir Bobby Robson.

Reports in France claim that the news has alerted Valencia to Robert's possible availability.

Valencia see Robert as an ideal replacement for injured winger Vicente.

The Spanish international is still some way from returning and Valencia have struggled in Vicente's absence.

Valencia are now pondering bringing in reinforcements to help arrest their recent slump and could move for Robert when the transfer window reopens.

Newcastle could be willing to let Robert leave for the right fee so that Souness can fund his own spending plans, although the uncertain future of Claudio Ranieri at La Mestalla could cast doubt on any move.


Newcastle could make a shock move for Celtic's John Hartson next summer - if they fail to persuade Alan Shearer to delay his retirement.

And the Magpies are also considering a bold bid for Birmingham's Matthew Upson as they seek to strengthen their defence in January.

United boss Graeme Souness is still hopeful of convincing Shearer to extend his career.

But the Magpies will move early to line up a replacement for the England legend if the manager's pleas fall on deaf ears.

And Hartson's hitherto failure to win a new contract at Celtic has alerted Souness to the possibility of signing the Welshman on a free transfer next June.

Although Newcastle would have Patrick Kluivert, Craig Bellamy and Shola Ameobi to soften the blow of Shearer's retirement, Souness believes he needs four top strikers to challenge at the top of the Premiership.

The abrasive Hartson, 29, is a player who polarises opinion but has scored an impressive 66 goals in 96 starts for Celtic and possesses the physical presence which United will lack in Shearer's absence.

FUTURE

Hartson - who joined Celtic from Coventry for £6 million three years ago - insists he wants to sign a new deal in Glasgow, but has admitted for the first time that his future may lie elsewhere. As things stand, he will be free to speak to any interested clubs from January 1.

Upson is the latest defender to come under Newcastle's gaze as they seek to reinforce their rearguard in the New Year.

Argh,it's like Dalglish part-two.Please god if you love us at all,do not let us sign Hartson.No more long ball target man football please.