Source: Telegraph
Newcastle's Michael Owen mulls over Everton switch
The England striker was offered a new contract by Newcastle United at the end of last year, but decided instead to keep his options open.[LNB]The former Liverpool forward, who was born in Chester, retains strong links with the North West of England and is understood to be keen on signing for Everton. [LNB] Related ArticlesBenitez looks to Marseille's CanaAncelotti moves closer to ChelseaLiverpool captain Steven Gerrard agrees two-year contract extensionPaper View: Joy for John OShea as Arsenal look to return deficitLiverpool captain Steven Gerrard keen to extend Anfield contractSevillas Freddie Kanoute alerts Premier League clubs by keeping options openBut he will have to take a substantial cut on his current deal, which is worth more than £100,000 a week. And according to reports, Everton are also unlikely to match Owen's current salary[LNB]Everton tried to sign Owen four years ago from Real Madrid, but they were unable to match Newcastle's bid of £17 million.[LNB]Newcastle currently lie 18th in the Premier League, three points from safety with a crucial Tyne-Tees derby likely to be the catalayst for survival, and it is highly unlikely the 29-year-old will stay if they are relegated.[LNB]Meanwhile, Newcastle's interim manager Alan Shearer has urged his players not to lose faith and become despondent in their desperate battle to avoid relegation.[LNB]He said: "We can't get our heads down. There's still a lot of work to be done and we're still in there fighting." [LNB][LNB][LNB][LNB]
