Source: Northern_Echo
Striker Boyd keeps his options open
NEWCASTLE UNITED and Middlesbrough target Kris Boyd wants to spend the next few weeks weighing up his options before committing to his next contract.[LNB] The Scotland striker's existing deal at Ibrox ends at the end of next month and Rangers hope to convince him to stay.[LNB] But with the Scottish Premier League champions' poor financial situation still to be resolved, negotiations over new deals have had to be put on hold.[LNB] There is a lot for me to think about. This is an important stage in my career and my life, said Boyd. I'm going on holiday with my family next week and we will discuss our options.[LNB] I do have offers from the continent to consider and playing abroad is something that appeals. I will give everything careful consideration and hopefully can reach a decision during the next three weeks.[LNB] While Boro are ready to admit defeat in their pursuit, Newcastle remain a realistic alternative and offer him a move to the Premier League not too far away from his Scottish roots.[LNB] McLeish remains the favourite to sign the forward but there is also strong interest from Turkish sides Bursaspor and Ankaragucu, as well as Wolves and Wigan.[LNB] Newcastle manager Chris Hughton has been told he has no fresh capital to spend on new players ahead of the return to the top-flight and he will be forced to look at free signings.[LNB] Boyd's pedigree as an international goalscorer appeals to Hughton, particularly with no transfer fee involved, even if he will be looking for around £25,000-a-week.[LNB] The Magpies boss has headed north of the border on numerous occasions this season on scouting missions and he also has an interest in Motherwell defender Mark Reynolds.[LNB] Hughton has also suggested he will be looking at players he came up against in the Championship as alternatives to those he might have targeted had the cash flowed this summer.[LNB] There are players in the Championship who have had very good seasons, said Hughton.[LNB] There are players I am sure can do a job at a higher level.[LNB] They are definitely capable of stepping up, given the opportunity.[LNB] David Moyes has done it in the past, signing players from this level and taking them successfully into the Premier League.[LNB] It shows that the players are there, it's just a case of identifying them and giving them an opportunity.''[LNB]
