BIG SAM TRIGGERS MIDFIELD SHUFFLE
Sam Allardyce could be set for a reshuffle in Newcastle's midfield. Allardyce has set his sights on Joey Barton in a move that would see captain Scott Parker depart, with West Ham a likely destination. The Mirror reports that Allardyce is willing to take a gamble on Manchester City bad boy Joey Barton. However this comes at the expense of Newcastle's current midfield lynchpin and club captain Scott Parker.
Parker has been a transfer target for Alan Curbishley and West Ham since January. At the time any possible move fell through due to West Ham's relegation fight, but it now seems a reunion with Parker's former Charlton manager could be on the cards. If Curbishley was to swoop for his former Charlton captain Allardyce would be prepared to let him go for £8million. This would then create the funds Allardyce needs for a straight swap replacement in Barton.
After his off-field problems Manchester City have stated a bid of £5.5million will land the player. Barton, whose availability is public knowledge, is wanted by a clutch of other clubs, including Middlesbrough and Everton. West Ham also have to move quickly after their own combative central midfielder Nigel Reo-Coker expressed his desire to leave the club.