Milner hands in transfer request

Winger wants to leave Newcastle

By Rob Parrish   Last updated: 27th August 2008

newcastle james milner

Milner: Transfer request

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Newcastle winger James Milner has handed in a transfer request at St James' Park.

The England Under 21 international is a reported summer target for Aston Villa, where he spent a successful season on loan in 2005/06.

Kevin Keegan is eager to retain Milner's services in the North East and sees him as an integral part of the club's long-term plans.

The winger scored one and created another in the Magpies' 3-2 extra-time victory over Coventry in the Carling Cup second round on Tuesday night.

Very disappointed

A statement on the club's official website read: "Newcastle United can confirm that it has received a written transfer request from James Milner.

"The club is very disappointed that James sees his footballing future as being away from St James' Park. He is a valued member of the squad and it is only a year ago that he signed an improved long-term contract.

"We have yet to receive an offer for James that has matched our valuation of him.

"However, should such an offer be received then the club would be forced to consider it, given James' apparent desire to leave."

Villa are believed to have already had one bid of £7million rejected by the Magpies, who value the former Leeds United man at £9million.

Targets

Martin O'Neill would not be drawn on Villa's interest in Milner, but admitted he was keen to bring in new faces before the closure of the transfer window.

O'Neill told Sky Sports News: "We would like to try and make some signings between now and the transfer deadline.

"We've got a number of targets in mind, and those may or may not materialise.

"We wouldn't mind trying to add to our squad if it is at all possible. We are making every effort to do so."