Tiote shuns big-club interest

Despite ‘flattering’ rumours of interest from top Premier League clubs, Cheikh Tiote has reiterated his desire to stay at Newcastle United.

Since leaving FC Twente for United last year, the Ivorian’s reputation has grown in England, with Chelsea, both Manchester sides and Liverpool all actively monitoring the impressive holding midfielder.

While the 25-year-old has admitted the lure of Champions League football is tempting, he has rubbished reports suggesting his departure from the Sports Direct Arena is imminent.

Tiote told Sky Sports News: “I am flattered by clubs interested but there is nothing official.”

“When teams such as Chelsea, City, Liverpool, United are interested in you it makes you think twice, but I love Newcastle, I belong to Newcastle and I enjoy my life here.”

Newcastle moved to secure the future of the midfielder by offering him a six-and-a-half year contract in February.