Newcastle's Barnes bid

Paul Jewell has confirmed that Derby have rejected an offer to sign Giles Barnes from Newcastle. West Ham and Tottenham were linked with the English midfielder, but now Newcastle are favorites to land his signature.

"Tottenham haven't approached us about Giles Barnes though.

"The only other approach came from a Championship club who enquired about taking him on loan.

"I'd like to keep him but, if the player wanted to go and the money was right, we wouldn't stand in his way.

"Giles Barnes is going to be a terrific player in the future. A lot has been said about Giles and it's a lot to put on his shoulders.

"He missed pre-season and is catching up, and some people expect too much of him." Steve Howard, Matt Oakley, Andy Griffin and Jon Macken have already left Pride Park this month.