Magpies prepare fresh Saviola approach

Newcastle United have taken a step closer to sealing a deal for out-of-favour Argentine striker Javier Saviola from Real Madrid after the player expressed his frustrations at lack of playing time in Spain.

Speaking to Spanish publication Marca Saviola stated that his future lies either in the Premier League or in the Calcio.

He stated that neither Bernd Schuster, nor new boss Juande Ramos have shown any faith in him, and that at one point Ramos told him that if he wanted to play regularly, he should leave Madrid.

'Juande Ramos told me that if I want to play regularly, I should join a smaller team,' said Saviola.

'My situation is intolerable, and I want to leave Madrid in the January transfer window,' he added.

'It's a difficult situation. You have to be very strong mentally because as each game goes by without playing you are destroyed a little more psychologically,' the 27-year-old lamented.

In the interview, 'The Rabbit' as he is called, spoke of a possible move to England.

'My future is away from Real Madrid. I would not want to stay in Spain. I see myself in the Premier League, or in the Serie A.'

Newcastle United are known admirers of the 27-year-old having made enquiries about his availability several times since last summer. Now that the player has himself expressed a desire to leave, the Magpies can finally tie up a deal that would appease fans who are yet again questioning the ability and credibility of the United board.

The price quoted for the Argentine speedster is £6 million, and the Magpies are said to be keen on reaching an agreement with the Bernabeu club.

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