Newcastle ready to snap up Kalou

07 June 2012 15:44

Newcastle United have joined the race to sign Chelsea striker Salomon Kalou.

The Chelsea speedster is available on a free transfer as the London club decided not to offer him a contract extension.

Geordie manager Alan Pardew is looking to strengthen his forward options after Gabriel Obertan was uninspiring following his £2m move from Manchester United last summer.

Sources close to Kalou have told talkSPORT, that while Newcastle are interested, he is open to offers across Europe.

Schalke have offered the Ivory Coast international a lucrative offer and the opportunity of playing Champions league football which could steer him away from Newcastle.

The Chelsea winger had limited opportunities last season, starting only 16 games, and has also been linked with moves to Arsenal, Liverpool and Galatasaray.

Source: DSG