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Milner hands in transfer request

27/08/2008

Newcastle United have confirmed that midfielder James Milner has handed in a written transfer request.

The England under-21 international has reportedly been unsettled at St James' Park for several months, with the situation coming to a head this summer following reports of interest from a number of Premier League clubs.

Aston Villa look to be heading the list of clubs chasing the 22-year-old's signature before Monday's transfer deadline.

A number of other leading candidates for Milner are beginning to emerge, including Everton, Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester City and Liverpool.

However, it is thought that the player favours a move to Villa Park following his successful loan spell during the 2005/06 season.

In a statement, the Magpies said they are "very disappointed that James sees his footballing future as being away from St James' Park".

"He is a valued member of the squad and it is only a year ago that he signed an improved long-term contract," the statement continued.

"We have yet to receive an offer for James that has matched our valuation of him.

"However, should such an offer be received then the club would be reluctantly forced to consider it, given James' apparent desire to leave."

It is thought Newcastle value Milner at around £9 million, with Villa looking likely to lodge an official bid within the next 24 hours.