Cheick Tiote could be on the verge of leaving Newcastle United.
Crystal Palace’s Yohan Cabaye in action with Newcastle’s Cheick Tiote
According to Sky Sports, Newcastle midfielder Cheick Tiote is in advanced talks with Al Jazira – and he was left out of tonight’s squad to face Southend United as a result.
The Ivorian, 30, joined Newcastle from FC Twente back in 2010, and has racked up over 150 appearances for the club, though blowing hot and cold throughout his time on Tyneside.
One of the club’s highest earners – bringing in £60,000-a-week according to The Guardian – Tiote has been heavily linked with a departure over the past year, as noted in The Guardian’s report, he saw a move to Shanghai Shenhua fall through in February.
Now, Tiote could finally be on the move away from St. James’ Park, as Sky Sports report that Tiote is in advanced talks with Abu Dhabi-based Al Jazira Club over a lucrative move.
It’s claimed that Tiote has received an offer from Al Jazira to leave Newcastle, and they’re willing to pay him £4m a year – almost £77,000-a-week, marking a major increase on his current earnings.
In fact, Tiote’s move could be incredibly close to completion, as he was left out of the Newcastle squad that travelled to take on Southend United this evening, suggesting a deal may be on the cards.
With options like Vurnon Anita, Jonjo Shelvey, Jack Colback and new signing Isaac Hayden, Tiote may not be missed by Magpies boss Rafael Benitez, who should also be pleased to see a huge wage leave the books.
Tiote’s six-year spell at St. James’ Park now appears to be coming to an end, and whilst there appears to be some details to finalise, we may well have seen Tiote play his final game for Newcastle.
Do you think it’s time for Tiote to leave Newcastle?
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