Pompey Confirm Griffin Bid

By Matthew Jones
April 30 2004

Aswell as wanting to take on-loan striker LuaLua to Pompey on a permanent deal, Harry Redknapp has also confirmed his interest in Magpies' defender, Andy Griffin.

Redknapp said: "I'd like to snap Griffin up, although a few other clubs are interested as well. He's a good young player - just the type we are looking for. "He's on a free transfer and he's not bad wages-wise, so we've got to be interested."

Newcastle striker Lomana LuaLua wants to join Portsmouth permanently as he is enjoying playing on-loan at the club.  He said:

"I'm enjoying it here and I like it.

"I wanted to go on loan to show people I could play in this league. Certain people doubted my ability and thought I wasn't good enough - but I think I've proved myself.

"I enjoy it here and am having a really good time. The staff are unbelievable and so are the players and especially the fans - so hopefully that can carry on."

It is believed that LuaLua will cost Redknapp £2.5 million.  Pompey have not yet given any indication regarding how much they would be willing to pay for the DR Congo striker, but Toon boss Sir Bobby Robson will not lower the price. Portsmouth chairman Milan Mandaric and Newcastle chairman Freddy Shepherd are close friends, but personal issues will not hold any part in negotiations for LuaLua.