Latics linked with O'Brien move

Andy O'Brien

This is not the first time that the club has been linked with the Irish International defender. Only a few months ago - shortly after the arrival of Greame Souness at St James' Park - and we were linked with a move but the Times commented yesterday that he is likely to move to either ourselves or Aston Villa in a deal worth £3 million.

Extract from the Times yesterday - click here for the full article.

"Andy O’Brien is also expected to leave for either Aston Villa or Wigan Athletic."

It would appear that the Magpies are close to signing Bayern Munich's Samuel Kuffour and so O'Brien is no longer needed.

O'Brien was at Bradford while Jewell took them to the Premiership. He did indeed come through the ranks at Valley Parade before his big move to Newcastle.

Souness however is not a fan of the 25 year old centre back who has six full caps for Ireland. Aston Villa would appear favourites for his signature after they came close to signing the centre back in the close season before capturing Laursen from AC Milan.

Jewell however will be monitoring events closely.

Rumour rating 3/5.