Solano arrested on suspicion of rape

Former Newcastle star Nolberto Solano has denied an allegation of rape after being arrested on Tuesday.

Peru midfielder Solano was arrested at a house in the Gosforth area of Newcastle following the rape claim made by a 22-year-old woman.

Solano has been released on bail and Northumbria Police said investigations into the allegation are ongoing.

Solano’s solicitor Simon McKay said: “I can confirm that Mr Solano has been the subject of an allegation of rape but denies the allegation fully.

“I have been in contact with Northumbria Police on Nolberto’s behalf and we are cooperating fully and assisting them with their inquiries.”

Solano became the first Peruvian to play in the Premier League when he joined Newcastle in 1998 from Argentinian side Boca Juniors.

The 35-year-old spent eight years at Newcastle in two spells and has also played for Aston Villa and West Ham before joining Championship club Leicester in January.

Leicester released a statement that read: “Leicester City Football Club can confirm that Nolberto Solano is assisting police with their enquires regarding an alleged incident that occured in Newcastle over the previous weekend.”