Gomis reveals he pulled out of Newcastle move in a dispute over wages

Lyon striker Bafetimbi Gomis has revealed he pulled out of a move to join Newcastle United in a dispute over wages.

The former St Etienne man was linked with Alan Pardew's side throughout the summer transfer window, but deadline day came and went with him remaining in eastern France.


He claims a deal to move to St James’ Park was initially agreed but the Magpies then asked him to lower his wage demands after having a second transfer bid accepted by Lyon.

"I had a talk with Newcastle's coach and we found an agreement," Gomis told Canal Plus.

"Then there were talks with Lyon. There was a first offer, which was refused, and then a second one, which was accepted.

"Newcastle then came back to me and asked me to make an effort on wages - but I never asked anything as it was my club which wanted to transfer me, so the effort had to be made by Newcastle or Lyon."

The 28-year-old will become a free agent next summer and admits he is unlikely to agree a new deal with Lyon, clearing the way for Newcastle once more.

"Now I think after what has been said and done, it is not conceivable to talk about any extension," he added.
Even so, Gomis' revelations may increase the pressure on Pardew and beleaguered director of football Joe Kinnear, who made just one addition to Newcastle's squad and has been under fire from supporters ever since his controversial appointment at St James' Park over the summer.