Pardew sign get Ba onto a long-term deal
A relief it most certainly was, but Newcastle United’s win will undoubtedly lift the immense pressure on the players and manager Alan Pardew. The 3-0 victory over Premiership rivals Wigan Athletic was their first in six and lifted the Magpies a further three points clear of 18th placed Southampton.
The star of the evening was unsurprisingly Demba Ba. The Senegal international netted twice in the win, with youngster Gael Bigirimana rounding off the scoring midway through the second half. However, it brought another cause to the attention of Pardew following the full-time whistle – that of Ba’s current contract.
The 27-year-old’s deal at St. James’ Park may not expire for another 18 months, but Newcastle have a bigger worry than that on their hands. For each passing transfer window, a release clause, believed to be around the £7m mark, can be activated by any team willing to part ways with that sort of money.
Naturally, it has left Pardew fretting about the future of his star man, who has netted 10 goals for the club this season. While no teams activated the clause over the summer, with the January transfer window just around the corner, the possibility of a team snaring his prized away in the New Year is a distinct possibility.
The Newcastle boss last night admitted he is keen to secure his services on a long-term basis, but until that happens; speculation will likely remain rife regarding a possible move for Ba away from St. James’ Park.
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