Newcastle have angrily denied that their interest in Wayne Rooney is part of a conspiracy to secure the striker's passage to Manchester United.
The Magpies had a £20m bid for the 18-year-old turned down by Everton on Monday and seem certain to step up their interest as United continue to monitor the situation.
However, they have vehemently denied claims they have tabled their offer in an attempt to spark a bidding war which will lead to Sir Alex Ferguson getting his hands on Rooney and easing their own path to John O'Shea, one of the men being tipped as a potential replacement for Jonathan Woodgate.
Newcastle are now considering taking legal action over the matter as the future of one of the English game's most promising youngsters again comes under the spotlight.
"Those allegations are offensive and absurd," a statement read. "The suggestion that Newcastle United would be helping one of its main competitors secure one of the most talented players in Europe is bizarre.
Probaly rubbish but if there was any truth the 5 at the back would all be irish albeit Hughes being from N.Ireland.
Given (GK)
Carr, O'Shea, O'Brien, Hughes
Would be handy them playing week in week out together.
