Newcastle boss Chris Hughton still keen on keeping transfer-listed Steven Taylor

Will he stay or will he go? Steven TaylorNewcastle boss Chris Hughton remains hopeful of keeping defender Steven Taylor as talks over his contract continue.The 24-year-old was transfer-listed on Wednesday after he and his representatives had failed to reach agreement with the club, although the Taylor camp later insisted they were happy to continue the negotiations.It is understood the player has since been offered a slightly different deal, and Hughton today confirmed that discussions are ongoing with just days of the transfer window remaining.He said: 'As always, we would prefer to keep it in-house, but it becomes very difficult these days.'But discussions are ongoing. Steven is certainly a player we would like to remain at this football club.'He is a player we value very highly and discussions are very much ongoing. We are very hopeful.'Hughton also confirmed that Ivory Coast midfielder Cheick Tiote has been granted a work permitHe also denied having an interest in Portsmouth's John Utaka, was coy when asked about reports linking him with a loan move for Tottenham striker Robbie Keane.He said: 'That's very much speculation at this moment in time.' Newcastle step up the chase for Portsmouth striker John UtakaNewcastle boss Hughton eyes Spurs striker and old pal KeaneNEWCASTLE FC

Source: Daily_Mail