Man City set to swoop for £8 million Given

Manchester City are set to land Newcastle star goalkeeper Shay Given after increasing their bid to £8 million, according to The Sun.

Reports this week suggested that Newcastle had rejected an initial bid of £5 million for the Republic of Ireland international, however Toon boss Joe Kinnear may be forced to sell after only receiving £10 million to spend in the transfer window.

The improved offer would allow Kinnear to use the sale money in order to chase numerous transfer targets, however the sale would also surely fuel the anger of the Newcastle faithful who idolise the long serving Given.

Kinnear admitted that “These are difficult times. If we don’t get stronger, it will be tight.” However, the 62-year-old manager has also repeatedly ruled out the sale of Given, highlighting the keeper as a key figure to Newcastle’s survival this season.

Man City boss Mark Hughes is keen to land Given after receiving a massive transfer budget, and sees the star as the perfect answer to improving City’s defensive woes.

Shay Given joined Newcastle in 1997 and has gone on to make over 350 appearences for the club, whilst earning a reputation as one of the best keepers in the Premiership with consistent quality performances. However, the Irish keeper is said to be frustrated with life at St. James’s Park with the current turmoil and a proposed move out of the club could be the perfect opportunity for Given.

[Source: The Sun]