Allardyce denies Martins interest

Newcastle boss Sam Allardyce insists he has had no approach for his Nigerian international striker Obafemi Martins.

The 22-year-old Martins has been linked with a move away since it emerged he has a �13m buy-out clause in his deal.

"There has been speculation about Obafemi Martins every week since I have been here, and he is still at Newcastle," said Allardyce.

"I have had no contact from any club, either in this country or any other wanting to activate his clause."

Martins has been tipped as a possible target for Manchester United, who have lost the services of striker Wayne Rooney to injury.

However, Allardyce confirmed today there have as yet been no offers for the player, who scored 17 goals last season following his �10m arrival from Inter Milan.

But Allardyce added: "Oba is still a Newcastle United player and the only way he will not be a Newcastle United player is if somebody activates that clause, and nobody has."

Source: BBC Sport