Alan Pardew refused to be drawn on the subject, suggesting there could be something there.
A simple "no" would have put all rumours to bed.
However the Toon boss is pleased with the shape of his squad going into the new campaign.
Alan Pardew: “We came up short at times last season.
"But everyone has worked hard to ensure we have a team that will represent this great club in a fitting manner over the coming months. And I’m relishing the prospect of what lies ahead.
"The pre-season friendlies have been encouraging, and while we have not played our best just yet, that is to be expected with plenty of new faces in the squad.
“We’re heading into the new season determined to produce better performances on home soil.
“And the signings we have made this summer give us every chance to achieve that goal.
“I’m sure they will give our team more potency in the next few months.”