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Despite the unsuccessful attempts to attract chek M.Barošas, anglo M.Owen, french N.Anelka to the team, the hope of strengthening their attacking arsenal is not lost and they have set their sights on the tormentor of the Lithuanian national team, La Coruña's defender Alberto Luque.
The versatile defender, capable of playing on the left flank, in the center of the field or as a striker, is not only of interest to Newcastle. Earlier, clubs like Liverpool, Atlético Madrid, and Real Madrid had shown clear interest. However, Real Madrid is likely to drop out of the race for this Spanish national team player since they recently acquired a versatile forward J.Baptista, and in the near future another versatile player Robinho will join the team.
According to Newcastle president Freddie Shepherd, A.Luque is already negotiating with an English club.
"We are negotiating with Deportivo La Coruña and with A.Luque," said F.Shepherd. "That's all I can say at the moment."
Team strategist Graeme Souness said he would be pleased if the Spaniard joined his team.
"Luque is a left-sided player who can play both on the flank and in attack," G.Souness talked about the potential purchase. "In Spain, he is considered one of the best players, and our strategy is to add players who can strengthen the team, elevate it to a higher level. To a level where we will try and win something."
Commenting on these statements, the new Deportivo La Coruña coach Joaquín Caparrós said that A.Luque should be sold if a suitable price is offered.
As today's Spanish sports newspaper "Marca" reports, A.Luque could move to England today, as there are only a few minor details left to be negotiated. According to "Marca," Newcastle offered 15 million euros and the rights to the Portuguese national team midfielder Hugo Viana, valued at 4 million euros.
Despite these rumors, A.Luque participated in the club's last training session. However, after this training session, gathered Deportivo fans clearly showed their dissatisfaction with A.Luque's negotiations with Newcastle and directed insulting remarks towards the player.
