Emile Mpenza is on the verge of an #8.3million move to Newcastle United.

The Belgian ace, who scored in his team's 2-1 victory over Sweden in the opening game of Euro 2000, has to finalise terms with the Magpies.

Emile Mpenza is set to complete his Newcastle switch(Reuters)

"We have to solve a few details, but Mpenza will be a Magpie soon," coach Bobby Robson is quoted as saying in German newspaper Bild.

The striker, who celebrated his 22nd birthday last week, joined current club FC Schalke 04 from Standard Liege for #5.3million.

"Nothing is finalised yet," said Schalke manager Rudi Assauer. "But we won't let too much get in his way. The club could use the money."

-- Anonymous, July 03, 2000