NEWCASTLE'S Spanish raid would appear to be not confined to maintaining an interest in Pep Guardiola, as reports from La Liga indicate that Bobby Robson is keeping tabs on Villarreal's Victor Fernandez.

Fernandez has enjoyed a superb season which has seen many of his team-mates come to prominence, indeed Jorge Lopez another midfielder, is being targeted by Real Madrid whilst Unai, the Spanish international central defender, who is now out for the season, is interesting many clubs.

The Magpies were represented at Villarreal's game against Barcelona on Sunday and have watched Fernandez on at least four other occasions.

Against Barca, Fernandez crashed in two goals, and the midfielder is currently the top scorer for his side, with 11 goals this term.

Gary Speed has a goalscoring reputation from midfield but with Rob Lee's career winding down, the Welshman could revert to a more defensive role.

Victor's buy-out clause in his contract is set at 1,250 million pesetas (£4.66 million) and it would be a surprise if Robson would splash out so much of his limited budget on the player.

Indeed if the transfer were to be completed, it would be the highest fee received for a player by Villarreal, who shocked the footballing world with their capture of Argentinian striker Martin Palermo earlier in the year.

-- Anonymous, April 11, 2001

Answers

DB - what's the source of this article? Has anyone seen enough of the guy to form an opinion?

-- Anonymous, April 11, 2001

It's from Planet Football.

-- Anonymous, April 11, 2001

Wor Swifty, will have seen the Barca / Villareal game on Sunday. Perhaps he was the Newcastle representative?

-- Anonymous, April 11, 2001

yep rik, funny game palermo looked fed up and victor is a marcelino in the making

no.

-- Anonymous, April 11, 2001