Alan Pardew is unperturbed about the speculation linking Yohan Cabaye with a move away from Newcastle United during the summer transfer window.
The France international has been a huge success in the Premier League following his bargain £4.5million move to the Magpies in 2011, so it is little surprise that he is attracting interest from rival clubs. Manchester United are long thought to have an interest in the midfielder, whilst Paris St Germain coach Laurent Blanc is an admirer and he also claims that Tottenham Hotspur are keen to add him to their squad.
Pardew could well face a fight to retain the services of the former Lyon man, who has featured in 60 league matches since his arrival at St James’ Park. However, the Newcastle boss insists he has no problem with the playmaker being linked with a transfer, as such speculation will merely add to his confidence ahead of the new season.
“You want to keep hold of your best players and Yohan is one of the best in the world, in my opinion,” he said. “He has been a fantastic asset for us and has conducted himself in the right manner through all the speculation, and I admire him for that. It can only be good for his confidence if more and more clubs get involved – good luck to him.”
Rather than deplete his options ahead of the new season, Pardew is looking to add to his squad. So far he has signed Loic Remy, the France international, in a loan deal from Queens Park Rangers, whilst Olivier Kemen, at 16, is one for the future. It is widely expected that another striker will be sought before the deadline, with Lyon’s Bafetimbi Gomis and Aston Villa’s out of favour Darren Bent potential options.
