A deal that was reported to have been sealed earlier in the week is now in doubt because of interest from Spurs, Chelsea, and Arsenal.
The Evening Chronicle claim that a deal was verbally agreed some time ago and that Shepherd will be furious if it falls through at this late stage. But it would be no surprise if the player’s agents were prepared to use our interest to negotiate a better deal with a club in his native London.
Meanwhile new Aston Villa boss David O’Leary believes that if we can complete Bowyer’s signing, it will prove to be a shrewd bit of business.
"This is another top class piece of business by Bobby," said the former Leeds boss.
"He pulled off a great coup getting Woodgate and now he's nicked another diamond - without having to fork out a penny on a transfer fee.
"Lee will do absolutely great for Newcastle. He's a tremendous acquisition for them and Bobby is a very lucky manager to be getting him.
"Bowyer's work-rate is so high it's freakish. He will give them terrific energy and great running power in midfield. And, on top of everything else, he'll get them goals - important ones, when they really matter, in the big games.
"I'm convinced that Bow will get back to his very best under Bobby Robson's shrewd guidance and man management."