Vfl Wolfsburg linked to Obafemi Martins move

Jun 30 2009 by Mark Douglas, The Journal

Even against the backdrop of uncertainty, moves are being made on United’s behalf in the transfer market.

Alan Shearer – still the overwhelming favourite to take over permanently when Mike Ashley finally sells the club – has a list of targets that he could sign relatively quickly if he got the green light.

The Journal understands former Reading striker Leroy Lita is on that list. Lita is a free agent after being freed by the Royals last season and is touting himself around clubs in the top flight and Championship.

Newcastle are one club with an interest in him but with other clubs such as Crystal Palace actually having opened negotiations with the former England under-21 forward, it is unlikely that he will be at St James’s Park next season.

Leeds United striker Jermaine Beckford remains a viable target too and contrary to weekend reports that had him signing for Sheffield United, Newcastle are still contenders for his signature.

Beckford is rated at around £1million and two unidentified clubs have already made bids for him. United are not one of those clubs but Beckford remains excited by the prospect of working with Shearer and if an offer was tabled, it would represent his preferred option.

A source close to the player told The Journal: “The Sheffield United report is jumping the gun. There have been a couple of bids for Jermaine but it is unlikely that anything is going to happen before the end of this week.

“Newcastle are a big club and Jermaine is intrigued that they’re interested. If something could be sorted out there, he’d certainly talk to them.”