Real Madrid deny Newcastle talks

By European Football
January 17 2005

Reports that Newcastle United were in talks with Real Madrid over a proposed loan move for Michael Owen have been strongly denied by Real Madrid chief Arrigo Sacchi. It was also suggested that Newcastle were preparing an offer for a permanent move in the summer.

But Sacchi dismissed both possibilities, stating that the only contact Real had with Newcastle was over Morientes, before his move to Liverpool.

While it does seem likely that Newcastle are in the market for a striker, to replace the soon to be departing Alan Shearer, it does not seem likely at the moment that the replacement will be Owen, who Real insist is very happy in Madrid.