Newcastle United give up on Dieumerci Mbokani

Newcastle United have today formally given up on their pursuit of Dieumerci Mbokani.  The Magpies had been tracking the Anderlecht striker but have decided that it is not in their best interest to get into a bidding war with Arsenal and Juventus.

The Democratic Republic of Congo centre forward has had a price tag of around €10m placed on him by Belgian side Anderlecht.  However officials at St James' Park expect the final fee to be a lot higher and have switched their attention to Benfica striker Rodrigo.

Alan Pardew came out last week and publicly dismissed any interest in Rodrigo but it is understood that behind the scenes he remains a primary target for the North East side.  Privately Pardew has been impressed by the effectiveness of Rodrigo and the Brazilian would be suited to the style of play at Newcastle.