Nick Barmby: "He is a wonderful footballer and it is fantastic for the club to be linked with these players.
"I'm not sure whether we are close to a deal or close to talking - but that would be fantastic.
"He is 29, still has a burning desire to be in a World Cup squad and whoever gets him - and hopefully it will be us - will have a great asset.
"It's Michael's decision but it would be fantastic for us and our fans to have someone like him playing for this club.
"If you give him chances he will get you goals.
"He's had a few bad injuries and the form at Newcastle with the relegation dogfight made it difficult, but if he is in a team that is creating chances he will definitely score goals.
"That is one thing you don't lose."