Newcastle Join Race For Arouna Kone

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.

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’t seem easy for Newcastle as Wigan manager admits that the Toffees are the preferred destination for the forward.


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


"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.


"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."


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.


Newcastle are ready to pay £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.