BIG SAM TRIGGERS MIDFIELD SHUFFLE
Sam Allardyce could be set for a reshuffle in Newcastle's midfield.
Allardyce has set his sights on Joey Barton in a move that would
see captain Scott Parker depart, with West Ham a likely
destination.
The Mirror reports that Allardyce is willing to take a gamble on
Manchester City bad boy Joey Barton. However this comes at the
expense of Newcastle's current midfield lynchpin and club captain
Scott Parker.
Parker has been a transfer target for Alan Curbishley and West Ham
since January. At the time any possible move fell through due to
West Ham's relegation fight, but it now seems a reunion with
Parker's former Charlton manager could be on the cards. If
Curbishley was to swoop for his former Charlton captain Allardyce
would be prepared to let him go for £8million. This would then
create the funds Allardyce needs for a straight swap replacement in
Barton.
After his off-field problems Manchester City have stated a bid of
£5.5million will land the player. Barton, whose availability is
public knowledge, is wanted by a clutch of other clubs, including
Middlesbrough and Everton. West Ham also have to move quickly after
their own combative central midfielder Nigel Reo-Coker expressed
his desire to leave the club.
