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Newcastle Join Race For Arouna Kone

04 July 2013 - 16:52

Newcastle have made a late entry in the pursuit for Wigan Athletic striker Arouna Kone. Kone was earlier expected to complete a move to Goodison where he would link up with former boss Roberto Martinez.

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The Magpies have stepped into the race for the 29 year old and they would look to hijack his move to Everton by placing a bid of their own. Although, it doesn&rsquo;t seem easy for Newcastle as Wigan manager admits that the Toffees are the preferred destination for the forward.<br />

"I'm led to believe through his representative that Everton is the club he wants to join", said the manager.<br />

"It's not rocket science to say that Kone will probably leave at some point this week. There have been a number of offers in for him.<br />

"There is no problem. He goes with our blessing because I need players who need to be at Wigan. If his heart's elsewhere then he's no good to me."<br />

It was earlier suggested that the Wigan Athletic striker had drawn attention from Norwich and Swansea City before Everton seemed to close the deal with him.<br />

Newcastle are ready to pay &pound;5m up front for the Ivory Coast international, who is set to leave his present club , following a relegation to the Championship. Kone has netted 11 goals for Wigan last season and had a remarkable Premier League debut.

Written by Chandraket Mall