Derby County boss Jewell turns down Toon's Barnes offer
Tuesday, 29 Jan 2008 16:03
Derby County reject Newcastle United offer for Giles Barnes
Giles Barnes looks set to stay at
Derby County until at least the end of the season after the club turned down an offer for the midfielder.
The highly-rated 19-year-old has reportedly interested
Newcastle United manager Kevin Keegan and
Tottenham Hotspur boss Juande Ramos, with both rumoured to be involved in a bidding war.
However, Derby have made public their decision to turn down an offer for Barnes from the Magpies, claiming it was "no way near" their valuation, as well as confirming they have had no contact from Spurs.
Rams boss Paul Jewell told the club's website: "We got a phone call from Newcastle United about Giles Barnes, but the valuation was no way near what we believe he is worth."
Jewell also revealed they had received an offer from an unnamed Championship club, who had enquired about taking Barnes on loan, but rejected any notion that this was a deal the club are considering.
"Giles Barnes is going to be a terrific player in the future," the manager continued.
"A lot has been said about Giles and it is a lot to put on his shoulders.
"He missed pre-season and is catching up, and some people expect too much of him."
While Jewell also admitted he would allow Barnes to leave if he submitted a transfer request, the former Wigan coach said he would do everything he could to keep the player at Pride Park.
"If the player knocked on my door and said he wanted to leave, and the deal was right for the club, I wouldn't stand in his way," Jewell added.
"But if Giles Barnes says he wants to stay, no matter how much is offered he is a player I would like to keep hold of him as he is a talent."