Rams reject Barnes offer

Rams reject Barnes offer

The Rams have announced they have turned down a bid from Kevin Keegan`s Newcastle United for young midfielder Giles Barnes.

Rams boss Paul Jewel confirmed on the clubs official web site: 'We got a phone call from Newcastle United about Giles Barnes, but the valuation was no way near what we believe he is worth.'

Media speculation on Tuesday morning suggested the 19-year-old was being lined up for a two million pounds move to Tyneside, but there has also been speculation that Tottenham Hotspur, who have also been repeatedly linked with the player are on the verge of signing him, but Jewell said they hadn't been in touch.

Rams boss, Jewell, has denied any contact regarding Barnes from any club but the Newcastle bid was the first. He said on the clubs official web site: "Tottenham haven't approached us about Giles Barnes. The only other approach has come from a Championship club who enquired about taking him on loan.'

With Steve Howard, Matt Oakley, Andy Griffin and Jon Macken having left Pride Park during the January transfer window the Rams boss would like to hang on to the England youth international but admits he couldn't stand in his way if the deal was right for all parties.

'I would like to keep him but if the player wanted to go and the money was right we would not stand in his way, like with any other player,' Jewell said.

'Giles Barnes is going to be a terrific player in the future, and a lot has been said about Giles and it is a lot to put on his shoulders.

'He missed pre-season and is catching up, and some people expect too much of him.

'As I have said, if Giles Barnes knocked on my door and said he wanted to leave, and the deal was right for the club, I wouldn't stand in his way. But if he wants to stay, no matter how much is offered he is a player I would like to keep hold of as he is a talent."