Celtic demand £4m plus Enrique for McManus

Newcastle United and Celtic are locked in discussions regarding two defenders who may switch clubs in the next 48 hours.

Celtic enquired about the availability of £6.3 million fullback Jose Enrique, while the Toon counter-enquired about Bhoys skipper Stephen McManus.

The Magpies have however hit a seemingly tall brick wall after being told that the only way McManus would be allowed to leave is if the Tyneside club offer £4 million, plus Spaniard Enrique as part of the package.

The clubs are now attempting to figure out exactly what the respective deals should look like, with Celtic reluctant to part company with their skipper, who Gordon Strachan sees as integral to his future plans.

Magpies gaffer Joe Kinnear is however keen on the powerful centre-back, but would be wary of the fee involved, considering the lack of finances at his disposal.

The Celtic skipper, according to The Daily Mail is keen on a move to the Premiership side with the prospect of earning big money a particularly attractive one at the moment.

It is understood that The Bhoys were initially ready to agree a straight swap for the two players, but quickly changed their stance upon realising Enrique's staggering £40,000 a week wage bill.

Scotland vice-captain McManus currently earns £16,000, and with Enrique out of the way Newcastle United are expected to increase that to almost double.

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