Stoke rule out Martins move

Martins: Stoke link denied

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Stoke chairman Peter Coates has rejected reports the Potters could be set to swoop for Newcastle striker Obafemi Martins.

The Nigeria international is one of a host of players expected to leave St James' Park this summer following the club's relegation to the Championship.

But while Stoke are in the market for a new forward - and have confirmed their interest in Martin's former team-mate Michael Owen - they have no interest in the former Inter Milan striker.

No substance

Coates told the Sentinel: "There's nothing in that one. We haven't had contact or discussions about him at all.

"I don't know where the story has come from, but there is no substance to it.

"I don't bother about the speculation. It is normal. I think our fans know we don't go in for publicity stunts."

West Ham defender James Collins is another name to have been linked with a possible switch to the Britannia Stadium.

Talks

Potter boss Tony Pulis, who has made an enquiry over the availability of Hammers team-mate Dean Ashton, is said to be considering the Wales international.

Coates held back from completely dismissing Collins as a summer target, but admitted he was unlikely to join the Potters.

He added: "I think Tony Pulis has had talks with West Ham about this and that, but nothing concrete.

"There's nothing happening at the moment with regard to that player and there probably won't be."