Newcastle manager Pardew: I want Ba to stay

Newcastle manager Alan Pardew has underlined his intentions to keep striker Demba Ba at the club.

After an outstanding debut season at the Sports Direct Arena which saw the Senegalese striker net 16 goals in all competitions, there has been speculation linking Ba with a move away from the club.

The former West Ham player has a buy-out clause in his contract which can be activated up until the end of July, and Turkish side Galatasaray are rumoured to be one of several sides interested.

But Pardew has refuted such speculation, and insists the 27-year-old will be a part of the club's strike force when they kick off the new campaign on August 18.

Pardew told Sky Sports: "I want Demba to stay.

"He's a Newcastle player and all I'm focusing on is making sure he's a Newcastle player next season."

The Magpies are competing on four fronts next season with qualification for the Europa League secure, and Pardew knows that a talented squad is needed to deal with the pressure.

"Expectations are going to be greater next season, and I accept that," he added.

"We competed with the top teams all last season and we have to try to achieve the same again next year.

"But the European campaign will put pressure on us, big time."