NOBBY IS REAL-LY IMPRESSIVE

As reported in optasoccer.com the Spanish giants had targeted Sunday`s fixture against the Saints to check on Solano, who`s performances in an unsatisfactory first half of the season for The Magpies has attracted interest from all corners of the world.

The Premiership`s leading assist man turned goalscorer and was also involved in four of Newcastle`s five goals.

Solano`s cross set up the first goal, Duncan Ferguson had to physically remove Solano to score the second, after a great one-two with England captain Alan Shearer, Solano scored the third and his cross from the right led to the penalty that Shearer blasted against the bar.

Toon boss Bobby Robson is likely to reject any bid to take his Peruvian magician away as he needs Solano to provide the ammunition for Shearer and Ferguson and also his set piece ability.

But with recent transfer negotiations floundering as the Geordies appear to lack the funds to complete them maybe every player has his price.

Click here for Optasoccer`s earlier story about Solano attracting the attention of Real Madrid.

Nic Evans