Magpies the first choice of Kluivert

PATRICK KLUIVERT has made a move to Newcastle his “first choice”, according to his agent.

The 28-year-old Dutch international, who has been released by Barcelona, has been a long-term target for the Magpies, who are seeking a replacement for skipper Alan Shearer when his current deal expires at the end of the new campaign.

Contact between the two parties has been made and Kluivert’s agent Paul Foortse yesterday revealed that St James’ Park remains the preferred destination for a man who has made no secret of his desire to play in the Barclays Premiership one day.

Newcastle first enquired about the former Ajax star around 18 months ago and have been asked to be kept informed of his situation since.

His reported wage packet at the Nou Camp of around £80,000 a week is way beyond what they would be prepared to pay.