Owen in Newcastle hint

Striker excited by future, Magpies move for Modric

Last updated: 24th April 2008

Michael Owen

Owen: Excited about future

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Michael Owen has given a strong indication that he plans to stay at Newcastle after revealing he cannot wait for the start of next season.

The England star's future has been the subject of conjecture for some time with the striker having just over a year to run on his current contract.

Newcastle are keen to hold talks with Owen about a contract extension as they look to tie him down to a long-term deal.

The former Liverpool man has boosted Newcastle's hopes of getting him to sign a new deal by saying he is excited about next season.

Exciting times

"In a way we want this season to continue because we're on a great run," Owen told the club's official website.

"But if we can take these performances and the confidence we've got about us and add one or two top players then it's going to be exciting times.

"It's the oldest cliché in the book, but we really are all in it together. It's nice to play some good football, to get some confidence and it's nice to get the fans' backing.

"And it's nice to climb up the table. I couldn't have imagined saying a few weeks or months ago there really is a buzz and anticipation for next season."

Talks
Meanwhile, Newcastle are being strongly linked with a move for Croatia star Luka Modric.

Modric is one of the most sought-after players in Europe with the likes of Chelsea, Liverpool, Tottenham and Barcelona all credited with an interest in the Dinamo Zagreb schemer.

However, reports suggest Newcastle have stolen a march on their rivals by inviting Modric to Tyneside for talks and a visit to the club's training ground.

Modric is believed to have met with football executive director Dennis Wise and head of player recruitment Tony Jimenez with Newcastle thought to be ready to pay £20million.