Settled Tiote rules out Newcastle United exit

Cheick Tiote insists he will not be seeking a summer exit from Newcastle United.

The Ivory Coast international arrived on Tyneside upon Newcastle’s return to the Premier League in 2010, when former Toon manager Chris Hughton spent £3.5million to take him from FC Twente. This outlay has proved to be one of the best bits of business conducted by any club in recent years, with his value now considered to be around five times as much.

His combative style of play has led to tabloid talk of a move to one of the top four clubs, with Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United never too far away from the speculation columns when his name is mentioned. However, Tiote insists he is happy with life at St James’ Park, and he has no intention of looking to join a rival when the transfer window reopens.

“I always enjoy playing for Newcastle United. Since my first year it has been a great place for me to play, and I want it to continue that way for a long time,” the 26-year-old, who has made 69 league appearances for the Magpies, told The Chronicle.

Such was the immediate impact Tiote had in England, Newcastle were eager to tie him to a new and improved contract within the first few months of his arrival. And in February 2011, the midfielder penned a new deal which is designed to keep him at the club until the summer of 2017.

Meanwhile, Newcastle are believed to have slapped a £25million price tag on the head of another of their midfield players, Yohan Cabaye. The France international joined the Magpies in the summer of 2011, and he has gone on to become one of their most influential players. Indeed, with Fabricio Coloccini expected to return to Argentina in the summer, it has been suggested that the former Lille man will be given the captaincy by manager Alan Pardew.

 

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