Newcastle to finalise Shefki Kuqi deal with free agent to plug the gap left by Andy Carroll

09 February 2011 22:59
Newcastle have moved to sign free agent Shefki Kuqias a short term replacement for Andy Carroll - the striker they sold toLiverpool for ?35million.[LNB]As exclusively revealed in Sportsmail, 34-year-old Kuqihad been identified by manager Alan Pardew as a player who could bolster hisdepleted forward line. And the Finland international travelled to Newcastle on Wednesday to agree terms ahead of a two hour medical.[LNB]Toon merchant: Kuqi[LNB]Pardew has been forced to scour the free agent marketafter running out of time on transfer deadline day to bring in a replacementfor crowd favourite Carroll. His need to reinforce was compounded further byShola Ameobi suffering a fractured cheekbone and being ruled out until April.[LNB]Former Middlesbrough striker Jeremie Aliadiere andBrazilian Ewerthon, formerly of Palmeiras, have also held talks but Kuqi's 6ft2ins frame and ability in the air suit Pardew's immediate needs.[LNB]Kuqi cancelled his contract with Swansea by mutualconsent and, despite offers from Championship clubs, was desperate for thechance to play for Newcastle and return to the top flight.[LNB]Ewerthon, 29, has rejected Newcastle's opening offer of acontract but has not ruled out a return to negotiations. His Britishrepresentative Barry McIntosh said: 'There has been an offer from Newcastle.However, the player is still considering his options.'[LNB]Meanwhile, Newcastle target Sylvain Marveaux of Renneshas undergone groin surgery and is expected to miss the rest of the season. The24-year-old is expected to join Newcastle on a free transfer in the summer butis awaiting an approach from Liverpool also.[LNB] Up for grabs: Sylvain Marveaux (right)[LNB]Rennes general manager Pierre Dreossi  said: 'We will never see Sylvain Marveaux inthe jersey of Rennes again.'[LNB] Newcastle boss Pardew eyes surprise swoop for journeyman Kuqi 'I felt sick': Newcastle fans tell of heartache at memorable comeback against Arsenal... because they left at half-timeAll the latest Newcastle news, features and opinion[LNB]  Explore more:People: Andy Carroll Places: Newcastle, Liverpool, Finland

Source: Daily_Mail