Benni McCarthy to Sign?


Hot Property

By Matthew Jones
June 7 2002

Newcastle are being touted as an alternative destination for long-time Middlesbrough target, South African striker Benni McCarthy. Newcastle are being touted as an alternative destination for long-time Middlesbrough target Benni McCarthy.

The South African striker has been the subject of a renewed bid by Boro in recent weeks after a failure to qualify for a UK work permit scuppered his planned move to the Riverside Stadium last year.

But with Boro now on the verge of signing Italian hot-shot Massimo Maccarone, Celta Vigo striker McCarthy appears to have been wiped off their hit-list.

That development comes as talk of Newcastle launching a bid for McCarthy increases. Bobby Robson is looking to strengthen his squad in all areas ahead of next season's Champions League campaign and is said to be a fan of the 24-year-old.

But any Newcastle move for McCarthy would be fraught with the same work permit difficulties Boro encountered with him.
McCarthy spent a hugely successful spell on loan at Porto late last season but they cannot afford to pay the £6million Celta are demanding for him.

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