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Magpies confirm likely sale of Emre

02/06/2008

Newcastle United have confirmed they have reached an agreement with Turkish side Fenerbahce for the possible transfer of midfielder Emre Belozoglu.

Emre joined the Magpies in 2005 from Inter Milan but has started just 46 matches in the league during his three years on Tyneside.

The 27-year-old Turkish international is still adored back home, mainly thanks to his excellent form in helping his country qualify for Euro 2008.

No details of the fee have been released but according to reports it is thought to be more than the £4 million Newcastle originally paid.

Emre played over 100 times for Fenerbahce's bitter Istanbul rivals Galatasaray before moving to Italy, meaning his likely forthcoming move could prove to be controversial.

A statement from St James' Park today reads: "Newcastle United can confirm that they have agreed terms with Fenerbahce for the transfer of midfielder Emre.

"The Magpies have also given Fenerbahce permission to talk to the player to discuss personal terms."

Over the weekend, Fenerbahce released a similar statement that claimed they were on the verge of signing the "Turkish superstar" ahead of the start of the European Championships later this week.

The sale of Emre could signal the early stages of an end-of-season exodus from the club as manager Kevin Keegan begins overhauling his playing squad since rejoining the Magpies in January.

Keegan has said he wants to bring in a number of players in the summer and the fee from selling Emre will go towards helping to fund future purchases, as well as freeing up space within the club's wage structure.