Egg chasing not Em chasing for Freddy

Last updated : 19 June 2003 By Martyn Elliott

Press reports had suggested that Newcastle had agreed a £4million fee with Feyenoord for the right-sided player, however new reports on Thursday claim that Freddy Shepherd is not prepared to pay that kind of money for a player who is out of contract in 12 months time.

The agent, Simon Konstantinidis, confirmed that he was unaware of any deal being agreed for the player and claimed that Shepherd’s reported trip to Australia was unconnected to the bid, insisting that he was just making the trip in order to watch a rugby international.

"That's (the Newcastle deal) news to me. At the moment Brett hasn't agreed to terms with any clubs," Konstantinidis told Fox Sports Australia.

"That's a bit premature to say that because as I understand it, Feyenoord's asking price is too high in the current climate.

"The way things are looking Brett will be with Feyenoord for pre-season training. Beyond that, at the end of next season he's a free agent and can look around for a new club on January 1 next year. As it stands he'll be playing for Feyenoord and fulfilling his contract.

"From what I understand, Freddy is coming to Sydney to watch a rugby game (Australia v New Zealand on July 26) around the time Newcastle is visiting Malaysia in the pre-season.

"By that time, Brett will already be back in Holland with Feyenoord training."