Demba Ba Could Still Activate £7M Release Clause for Newcastle Exit Admits Alan Pardew

Thursday, 20th September, 2012

Newcastle United manager Alan Pardew admits that striker Demba Ba could leave St. James’ Park in January.

Ba has a well publicised release clause of just £7M and, according to Pardew, it is active in the winter transfer window, as it was active in the summer transfer window.

relatedNewsStory The Senegal hitman, who scored both goals in Newcastle’s recent 2-2 draw against Everton, coming on off the bench, has seen his future the subject of renewed speculation of late.

Ba’s agent has claimed that his client does not understand how Newcastle’s management are using him and could decide to leave.

And now Pardew has admitted the striker could go for what would be a knockdown fee.

"There is that clause in his contract and it makes us vulnerable", said Pardew, quoted by the BBC, ahead of Newcastle’s Europa League clash tonight against Maritimo.

"It is still open in the next window", he added.

Pardew also added that, from his perspective, the comments of Ba’s agent do not reflect his relationship with the 27-year-old.

"I just think the agent stuff was people saying things they should not say, really. It doesn’t really affect myself and Demba, because we’ve got a very good relationship", said the former West Ham boss.