Nathaniel Clyne & Danny Simpson

[White Noise]

Newcastle head queue for Clyne as Pardew ponders January move for Palace youngster


By Soriebah Kajue


Last updated at 3:24 PM on 21st November 2011


Talk of the Toon: Young Crystal Palace defender Nathaniel Clyne is wanted by Newcastle

Newcastle are leading the race to sign Nathaniel Clyne from Crystal Palace.

The 20-year-old right-back is regarded as one of the hottest prospects outside the Premier League and has been tipped to make the grade at the highest level.

His contract with the Eagles expires next summer and despite extended negotiations with the club, the Stockwell-born full-back has so far failed to agree new terms.

Everton, Fulham, Wolves and Blackburn have all run the rule over the defender in recent months. But Alan Pardew has stolen a march on his rivals and views Clyne as a prime candidate to replace Danny Simpson.

Simpson has stalled on an improved five-year deal with the Magpies, which has been on the table since the summer.

The former Manchester United trainee joined from Blackburn in August 2009, initially on loan, in a deal that made him one of the lowest paid in the squad.

Since then Simpson has excelled for the Magpies and feels the offer does not reflect his development since joining the club.


In limbo: Danny Simpson (left) has not agreed a new deal at Newcastle

Newcastle, though, have made it clear they will not be upping their offer and Pardew may even make a January bid for Clyne to beat off the competition.

A transfer fee would prove more profitable to Palace, who would also be in line for a compensation package, if Clyne switched in the summer because of his age.

However, it is believed the England Under 21 international is intent on seeing out the campaign with Palace where he is gaining experience and developing as a regular in Dougie Freedman's team.



Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2064310/Newcastle-lead-race-Nathaniel-Clyne.html#ixzz1eNZZpijj