N'Zogbia hands in transfer request

Newcastle United's 22-year-old midfielder Charles N'Zogbia has handed in a transfer request after his agent, Frank Peslerbe confirmed that Arsenal, Tottenham, and Aston Villa has all enquired about his client, while Lyon have now entered the fray as well.

"Lyon have contacted us regarding Charles. The challenge of playing for them is attractive to him," Peslerbe told Setanta.com.

"They have a long-term project and play Champions League football year in, year out, which is something that Charles would fancy.

"It could help him bolster his career and move forward within higher surroundings, which is what he eyes.

"It is an interesting option, but both clubs have to reach an agreement."

Amidst wild speculation about his future, N'Zogbia put the matter to rest by explaining by he has put in a request to be transferred.

'There have been some changes at Newcastle recently,' N'Zogbia told The Times.

'I have experienced six different managers in four years, and it is too much. Every season is getting worse and worse despite the lofty goals of the club. I therefore decided to leave, to try to find better exposure.'

These comments come at the heel of Joe Kinnear's statements describing speculation on N'Zogbia as 'laughable' and 'absolute nonsense'. However, now that a formal request has been made the situation may well be out of Kinnear's hands.

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