Paper Talk: Samuel Eto'o - £8 million

By Matthew Jones
June 6 2004

According to the SUNDAY SUN, Newcastle United are eyeing a summer move for Real Mallorca striker Samuel Eto'o.

Eto'o netted 17 times last season and won the African Player of the Year award. It has been reported (although this was in the Sun), that he is seen as a possible successor to Alan Shearer.

£8 million is believed to be the asking price, with Atletico Madrid and Liverpool also showing interest.

New Anfield manager Rafael Benitez, was keen on signing Eto'o last summer whilst he was at Valencia and it is understood that he wants another go.

But, this is £8 we are talking about - and we also need a right back.  According to the Sunday paper, a move for Eto'o would see any possibility of a swoop for Hatem Trabelsi go down the drain.  Ajax wanted £6m for their Tunisian right-back.

Danny Mills could fill the right-back role and his agent has once again confirmed that his player is keen on a move to St James' Park, although no talks have taken place... and none have been planned.

Neil Featherby said:

"Danny returned from holiday in Dubai last night and we hope to speak with all interested parties soon. I haven't heard from Newcastle regarding a meeting this week but they are a huge club and one that Danny would be interested in. However, there are other clubs very keen."