Newcastle defender bid rejected

Wednesday, 25/01/2012

Newcastle have had a bid turned down for Watford defender Adrian Mariappa.

The £2m move for the Hornets star who can play at centre half or right back was rejected out of hand.

Watford are looking for at least twice that amount for a player who has come through their youth system.

Boss Sean Dyche said: "Unfortunately, as is often the case these days, their offer is nowhere near our valuation. That's the awkward side of the game now, and they do it for their own reasons."

Mariappa, 25, has made more than 200 first-team appearance for Watford since singing in 2005.

Newcastle boss Alan Pardew wants another versatile defender in his squad to cover for long term injury victim Steven Taylor at centre half, and as cover for right back Danny Simpson, yet to agree a new contract at St. James' Park.

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