The mystery foreign body that the Chronicle have been harping on about for days is apparently revealed today as Emile Mpenza, Belgian International striker playing for Schalke 04 in Germany, and of Zairean parentage.

Thompson house sources claim that we are in competition with Napoli over an £8m deal for the 21 year old. Interestingly, German web pages mention the Italian connection and interest from Spurs but not us. The Schalke coach is also quoted as basically reckoning the player is knackered after Euro2000, is now resting before returning for pre-season training on July 10th and that the Gelsenkirchen club have no need to sell him.

This was on MidasSoccer.com ----

Newcastle who have been linked with nearly every striker going are now being touted as the buyers for Belgium's Euro 2000 striker Emile Mpenza.

Talks between Newcastle and Schalke, the player's club are meant to be at an advanced stage and a bid of £8m is said to have been excepted.

A source close to the German club has said: "Schalke are happy at what Newcastle have offered.

"And the player would be delighted to join Newcastle United. All that seems to be holding up the completion of the deal is for the Newcastle management to get the go-ahead to do it."

United refuse to comment on the transfer but it is strongly rumoured in Belgium, so we will just have to wait and see if this is just another story or the real deal.

I wouldn't buy him though. He didn't do that great in Germany, and England isn't gonna be easier at all. If they wanna buy someone from Schalke then they should buy Sand, the danish international.

After Ronaldo and Van Nistleroy, (dodgy spelling perhaps), we cannot doubt Bobby Robson's ability in unearthing young striking talent. I hope we do sign a quality striker who can run at defences. I agree though, pace apart Mpenza flattered to deceive in Euro2000.