Owen Contract Talks Breakdown

The contract talks between Newcastle and Owen look likely to be at an end after he rejected Dunhill's latest offer, if nothing can agreed soon then Michael Owen may leave the club for free at the end of his contract (June 2009).

Dunhill remarked "whilst Owen would like to stay at St James' we are not prepared to meet his wage demands, this is a big blow for the club, but we wish Michael the very best in the future no matter where he chooses to go."

Owen attended a press interview earlier today (above) and stated "I don't want to leave this club, the atmosphere within St James' is outstanding even when we are struggling, the fans are some of the loyalest fans in the world. But in football things always change and although it looks like my career here is over I will never forget my time at this club, it has been an outstanding experience."

Manchester United and Liverpool are reported to be interested in signing the striker and are expected to approach his agent in January to agree a contract.