By Andy Baggott
July 2 2004

Leeds teenager James Milner has reportedly agreed to join Newcastle on a 5 year deal. The winger has signed after the clubs agreed a fee that is rumoured to be in the region of £5 million The move is sure to infuriate the Leeds fans, coming hot on the heels of Alan Smiths controversial move to Manchester United. However, a fee of £5 million is good money for an 18yr old with only a handful of appearances to his name. Indeed, up until Christmas, he wasn't in the team, and was loaned out to Swindon to gain some experience. He impressed there, and due to injuries and suspensions, was thrust straight into the first team, here he stayed until the end of the season. His sale was somewhat forced on the board due to the expected departures of several high earners not happening. Although Mark Viduka is close to agreeing terms with Newcastle, and Stephen Mcphail joining Barnsley, Ian Harte, Michael Duberry and Dom Matteo are all still at the club, despite being on the verge of leaving.