Saturday, 7th August 2010
Marseille boss Didier Deschamps is keen to strengthen his squad ahead of the new campaign, but must first reduce the club’s wage bill. To that end Deschamps could be willing to send Hatem Ben Arfa to Newcastle United for a season-long loan.
Ben Arfa has been linked with clubs across Europe, but it is Newcastle who have emerged as the most serious contenders for his signature. Marseille would allow the 23-year-old winger to head to England and spend the season on loan at St. James’ Park in return for a loan fee of €800,000, plus Newcastle taking on Ben Arfa’s wages.
The talented winger who has attracted interest from AC Milan, Galatasaray, Paris Saint-Germain and even Real Madrid amongst others, has had a troubled time in Marseille, repeatedly clashing with the club’s coaching staff and being scalded for a supposed lack of discipline.
Nevertheless, should Ben Arfa end up at Newcastle, he would significantly strengthen the Premier League club’s starting eleven.
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