Real Madrid's Owen sweats on Man Utd offer

Newcastle United chairman Freddy Shepherd has called off their pursuit of Real Madrid striker Michael Owen.
 
Shepherd last night called off a planned trip to Spain to negotiate a deal with Real Madrid chiefs after Owen insisted he will NOT go to Newcastle.

Frustrated Shepherd instead travelled to Dublin for Newcastle's friendly with Bray Wanderers and is now left in no doubt only a massive U-turn from the England striker will see him move to Tyneside.

Owen's representatives are desperately trying to convince United boss Alex Ferguson to table an £11million bid.

Talks are ongoing between Old Trafford chiefs and the Owen camp. But so far a deal has been held back because Fergie is satisfied with Ruud van Nistelrooy and Wayne Rooney up front.