Newcastle boss Alan Pardew has described the claims of Tranquillo Barnetta's agent as 'ridiculous'.
Enrique set to face Fiorentina; Routledge 'very close' to Swans deal
Newcastle manager Alan Pardew has described the claims of the British agent of Bayer Leverkusen winger Tranquillo Barnetta that an offer of a £40,000-a-week contract is not good enough as 'ridiculous'.
Barry McIntosh, the player's representative, told
skysports.com on Thursday morning an offer from the Premier League club had 'no hope in hell' of being accepted.
It was implied Barnetta might accept a £40,000-a-week salary at clubs such as Liverpool, Arsenal or Tottenham, but not at Newcastle.
Pardew has been linked with the Switzerland international for several months and the possible departure of Joey Barton could increase the need for a midfielder.
But the Newcastle manager was shocked by the claims of McIntosh, as he said: "It's obvious we need to resolve the Joey situation. We also need to bring some players into this club.
"We need a signing or two. I haven't even considered that (Barton's replacement). Like I said, it is a time for reflection.
Interest
"In terms of those comments (from McIntosh) I'm not even going to go there. To say 40,000 is a derisory offer - that's ridiculous."
Two players who look set to leave the club, however, are Jose Enrique and Wayne Routledge.
Pardew expects full-back Enrique to play in Saturday's friendly against Fiorentina, despite being linked with Liverpool, while Routledge looks closer to finalising a move to Swansea.
"Enrique is still here and will play on Saturday," he added.
"I don't see an issue that he won't start. I know there's interest in Jose, but no concrete interest. We are poised to react to that.
"As for Wayne I'm not sure if that deal is finalised but I believe it is very close."
