Ba plays down exit speculation

Ba plays down exit speculation

Published Jul. 6, 2012 1:00 a.m. ET

Newcastle striker Demba Ba has played down speculation linking him with a move away from St James' Park this summer.

The Senegal international, who returned for pre-season training with the Magpies on Thursday, is thought to be on the radar of several clubs.

Manchester United, Liverpool and Turkish giants Galatasaray are all believed to be interested in the frontman, who scored 16 goals for Alan Pardew's side last season to help them to a surprise fifth-placed Premier League finish.

Ba, who joined Newcastle on a free transfer last summer after departing West Ham, has a release clause in his contract thought to be worth £7million, which could encourage clubs to come knocking.

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But the 27-year-old has cooled talk surrounding his future, telling his official Twitter account: "So much stuff about me lately. Rumours are rumours! Just forget about it."

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