Tuesday Jan 24 2006 14:46
Portsmouth full-back Gregory Vignal has urged
Newcastle United to make a firm move for him before the transfer window closes.
Vignal's career at Fratton Park appears to be over following the return of boss Harry Redknapp and despite interest from Monaco and Marseille, the 24-year-old would prefer to link-up with Graeme Souness at St James' Park.
Souness was reported to be keen to land the Frenchman to strengthen his injury-ravaged squad, but it is believed Magpies chairman Freddy Shepherd has put an embargo on all transfers in and out of St James' Park until the manager's future is clearer.
A frustrated Vignal said: "I am allowed to leave during the winter transfer window, Portsmouth accepted to release me and set a price for a possible transfer.
"My agent has phone calls with Graeme Souness, I want to work with him.
"He knows me, but, before hiring a left full-back, the Magpies have to sign a forward and know if Souness will remain in charge at the club.
"I would like to go to Newcastle.
"This club had direct contact with Portsmouth to negotiate, as did Porto. Porto were interested in me but the club decided to hire a left-back they loaned earlier this season to Santa Cruz.
"There were initial talks with Monaco but the Principality side preferred to sign Manuel Dos Santos. My agent was also in contact with L'OM but, finally, it was not sorted out."
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