The Newcastle boss has been active in the transfer market bringing in James Perch, Dan Gosling and Sol Campbell whilst rumours of a deal for Marseille’s Hatem Ben Arfa refuse to go away.
Ben Arfa was told earlier this summer by Marseille coach Didier Deschamps that he should find another club as he was no longer a part of his plans. Unfortunately for Deschamps, one player who was part of his plans, Mamadou Niang, departed for Turkish side Fenerbahce and there was a change of heart by the manager who is now preventing Ben Arfa leaving for Newcastle. Manager Chris Hughton has since admitted that whilst he is unsure of what the season holds for the Tynesiders, there has been no talk of avoiding relegation at St James’ Park.