Hughton rules out Harper exit

Hughton rules out Harper exit

Published Jun. 24, 2010 9:41 a.m. ET

Newcastle manager Chris Hughton has dismissed reports linking Steve Harper with a move to Scottish Premier League giants Celtic.

Recent reports suggested Celtic were lining up a move for Harper as a possible replacement for Artur Boruc.

However, Hughton has moved quickly to reject the speculation and insists he has no plans to sell long-serving keeper Harper.

"I can categorically state that there is nothing in that," Hughton told the Evening Chronicle.

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"We just won't sell him. He's our number one goalkeeper, he had a great season for us and he's a very important member of our squad."

Hughton also rejected rumours that Newcastle were interested in Algeria goalkeeper Rais Mbolhi.

Mbolhi's club Slavia Sofia claimed earlier this week that Newcastle were keen on signing the shot-stopper, but Hughton has ruled out a move for the African.

"I actually had a text message from someone about that player, asking if I would be interested and that is as far as that has gone," added Hughton.

"I wasn't even aware of him or his name, so it's surprising to hear those reports. We are definitely not interested."

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