Sevilla to gazump Toon?

ByEurosport

Published 22/06/2007 at 10:06 GMT

Sevilla have joined Newcastle in the race to sign Paris Saint-Germain defender David Rozehnal, according to the player's agent.

FOOTBALL 2006-2007 Ligue 1 Paris Saint-Germain Daivd Rozehnal

Image credit: Imago

The 26-year-old Czech Republic centre back has been subjected to interest from Newcastle since Sam Allardyce joined as manager and decided to overhaul his defence, but PSG rejected an initial £2 million bid that has now been raised to £3 million.

"With both clubs we are in the last stage of negotiations," agent Pavel Zika said. "David will move to either Sevilla or Newcastle.

"It is 50-50 - the club which completes the negotiations first will capture David."

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Newcastle can offer the player a higher wage, but the UEFA Cup champions and Spanish cup finalists can give Rozehnal Champions League football, something which could tempt the stopper to Spain:

"He slightly prefers the idea of playing in Seville, but Newcastle are slightly ahead as they entered the chase earlier."

Newcastle were previously up against Borussia Dortmund, but the Germans pulled out once the fee was raised and opted for Robert Kovac instead.

Newcastle, meanwhile, are reported to have won the race to sign Manchester United striker Alan Smith.

- VASEK KADLEC AND REDA MAHER -

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