Shearer will have say on United deals

Apr 19 2009 by Neil Farrington, Sunday Sun

ALAN SHEARER will have a say in Newcastle’s transfer dealings this summer – regardless of whether he stays on as manager next season.

But United owner Mike Ashley must look to sell £20 million-worth of Dennis Wise signings – or bring a new investor on board – to raise the cash Shearer would want to spend if he agreed to take the Toon job permanently.

Shearer and temporary assistant Iain Dowie expect to be asked to draw up their recommended list of summer transfer targets – whichever division Newcastle are in.

“We will have an input,” Shearer confirmed last night. “We’ll put ideas across.”

Although Shearer’s main focus is on saving United from relegation, the news of his involvement in long-term transfer policy will boost fans’ hopes that he can be persuaded to remain as manager beyond the summer.

But while the former Newcastle skipper has NOT yet discussed the club’s finances with Ashley, the money currently earmarked for transfers this summer – even in the assumption that high earners like Michael Owen and Mark Viduka will leave – is no more than £15 million.