United plan Veloso hijack

Newcastle United are racing against time to sign their primary transfer target Stephane M'Bia from French outift Rennes.

The Magpies are said to have bid £8 million for the talented Cameroonian, but Rennes want £10 million. M'Bia himself is understood to be reluctant to move to the North-East considering Newcastle's abysmal league position, and early cup exits.

If Toon manager Joe Kinnear does indeed fail to land M'Bia, then his attention will be shifted to Sporting Lisbon's midfield maestro Miguel Veloso, who has been linked with a £12 million switch to Bolton Wanderers.

United had previously enquired about the talented 22-year-old, but were told that he was not for sale. Now that Bolton have broken through to Sporting, and a move to the Premiership is finally on the cards, Joe Kinnear may finally attempt to sign a player the fans would absolutely adore on Tyneside.

Newcastle United have money to spend in the transfer window, and with Charles N'Zogbia and Shay Given expected to make way, Veloso's introduction would be a tonic to appease fans and make a statement as to the club's ambitions.

Joe Kinnear spoke to Managing Director Derek Llambias of his preferences last night, and it is understood that M'Bia will be his top priority ahead of Veloso, but, developments at the Reebok will be monitored very closely.

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