Mariappa rejects Wigan chance

Newcastle are hopeful of signing Watford defender Adrian Mariappa after he turned down the opportunity to speak to Wigan.

Watford defender turns down opportunity to speak to Latics

Newcastle are hopeful of signing Watford defender Adrian Mariappa after he turned down the opportunity to speak to Wigan. The Latics were thought to be in pole position to sign the 25-year-old after making a higher bid than the Magpies. Wigan's bid was accepted by the Hornets and they were given permission to talk to the defender but Sky Sports sources understand he has turned down the opportunity to speak to the Latics. Instead, it is his intention to join Newcastle and the ball has now ended up back in Watford's court. Earlier on transfer deadline day, Newcastle boss Alan Pardew claimed the club had made their final bid for the defender, having already seen two offers rejected by the Hornets. It is understood there is a great willingness by the Magpies to stick to the deal already offered and Watford now have a decision to make