United target Veloso issues 'come n get me' plea

Newcastle United target Miguel Veloso has stated that he would like to leave Sporting CP, after manager Paulo Bento dropped the 22-year-old midfield maestro from the Lisbon-based club's first team for being a 'bad professional'.

Veloso was the subject of bids from English clubs Bolton Wanderers and Newcastle United each making significant progress in January - just not enough.

It is understood that United had a £10 million bid rejected for the midfielder, although, reports also claim that the Magpies wanted him on loan with a view to securing a permanent move in the summer.

But following a public display of disapproval at not being allowed to leave, the Portuguese international has fallen out-of-favour at his current club Sporting CP.

However, Veloso has maintained that he is ready to give his all for the club, and until he leaves will maintain his previous reputation as being a 'good professional.'

'Sporting should defend me,' Veloso told Jornal de Noticias. 'There is a big campaign against me and I do not think they can accuse me of being a bad professional."

'If Miguel Veloso is so tiny, I do not know why they keep talking about me, I get sad because no-one defends me, but life goes on.'

'I would like to leave, but it's not up to me only. But if something good for me and Sporting arrives, that would be good.'

Expect the story to continue as the summer rolls nearer. A host players have been shortlisted by United Executive Director (Football) Dennis Wise, and he is understood to be moving out of the club - but not before recruiting the players wanted by the club.

And yes, Veloso is on the list with Michael Johnson, Elano, Tom Huddlestone, and Denilson. It is thought that the list contains 15 names, more of whom may be revealed before this summer of United shake-ups.

For the very latest Premier League odds

Click here to join in the debate on the club forum.