Viana Out, Benni McCarthy In?

By Matthew Jones
June 17 2005

Sky Sports reported yesterday that Newcastle United are believed to be willing to send Hugo Viana to Porto in exchange for South Africa international Benni McCarthy.

With Patrick Kluivert having been released, and Craig Bellamy perhaps unlikely to return to St James' Park, the Magpies' need to boost their options in attack.

Sporting Lisbon took care of Hugo Viana last season, having him for the whole season on loan, and are keen to keep the Portuguese midfielder, although Newcastle's valuation of the player could put the UEFA Cup runners-up off making a bid.

Newcastle chairman Freddy Shepherd has said that 'there is a possibility' a swap deal can be done with both clubs benefiting from the exchange.