Tottenham win the race to first talks with Barton
Tottenham have edged past their rivals in the race to sign Joey Barton by staging first talks with the midfielder, following his transfer listing by Newcastle United.
The Tyneside club decided to transfer list the midfielder enforcer, following outbursts via social networking site, Twitter, and an apparent bust-up with manager, Alan Pardew.
The 28 year-old’s agent, Willie McKay, claims that the player has been ‘inundated’ with interest and that several top Premier League clubs are showing an interest in the midfielder, with Sir Alex Ferguson even being linked with a move for the player before his transfer listing.
McKay told Radio 5 Live: “We’re talking to top Premier League clubs and European clubs. One is very, very interested.”
The former Manchester City playmaker had a superb partnership with Kevin Nolan last season, and should he maintain similar form, a top flight team that takes a risk on a midfielder known for his past volatility, may just snap up a bargain.
