Japanese side JEF United Chiba have refused to
rule out the possibility of making a shock move for England and
Newcastle striker Michael Owen.
The struggling J-League side were said to be considering
an approach for the 28-year-old striker, according to a report in
Japanese daily Nikkan Sports.
Former Liverpool first-team coach Alex Miller was recently
unveiled as JEF United's new manager and is keen to add to his
squad when the transfer window opens.
JEF United are currently bottom of the J-League with just one
victory and Owen, who has yet to agree a new contract extension
with Newcastle, was reported as being the ideal solution to their
goalscoring problems.
JEF United have admitted Owen would be a great signing but
stressed no approach has been made.
"We are considering adding players to our squad when the
transfer windows open this summer," said JEF United spokesman
Kentaro Shiga.
"However, we haven't come to the point where we can name the
possible candidates, including Owen.
"It would be great if we can have a player like Owen with us as
that will increase the attention in our club.
"But we have just started under our new manager and are still
working to put things together in the new administration."
Newcastle declined to comment on the speculation.