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Turkish star Emre set to join Fenerbahce

31/05/2008

Turkish side Fenerbahce claim they have reached an agreement with Newcastle United for midfielder Emre Belozoglu.

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

The 27-year-old is still adored in his home land and has been one of the key men behind their qualification for Euro 2008.

No details of the fee have been released yet but it is believed to be more than the £4 million Newcastle paid Inter for him.

Emre played over 100 times for Galatasaray and his move across Istanbul to Fenerbahce could be a controversial one.

Having reached agreement with the Magpies, Fenerbahce are now keen to speak with the player himself and secure the deal.

A statement from the Turkish club said: "Fenerbahce reached an agreement with Newcastle United in order to sign the Turkish superstar Emre Belozoglu."

Although Emre is currently with the Turkish national team preparing for Euro 2008, it is believed he will sign a three-year deal with Fenerbahce before the tournament begins.

Selling Emre could signal the first part of an exodus at St James' Park as manager Kevin Keegan begins overhauling his playing squad.

Keegan has said he wants to bring in a number of players in the summer and the fee gained from selling Emre will help fund those future purchases.