United ready for Owen swoop
By GORDON SMART
June 29, 2007
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SAM ALLARDYCE is braced for a double raid on Newcastle strike duo Obafemi Martins and Michael Owen.
Manchester United are set to offer £4million plus Alan Smith for Owen, while Arsenal have already lined up a £13m bid for Martins.
The pair have buy-out clauses and Toon boss Allardyce said: “Everyone knows the clause situation Oba has. That leaves us in a very poor position.
Is Owen right for United?
“If those clauses are invoked, there is nothing we can do about it.
“I want to plan for Owen and Martins to start the season.
“But at some point between now and the end of August, I might lose those types of players. That would be a massive blow.”
United are on red alert as Owen, 26, has yet to comment on suggestions he could invoke his £9m get-out clause.
Nigerian ace Martins, 22, has a £13m buy-out agreement — and Arsenal see him as Thierry Henry’s replacement.
MU a proposer 4M£ plus A.Smith pour Owen. 