Remy hits back at Newcastle and denies performing U-turn

Loic Remy has hit back at claims he pulled out of a move to Newcastle in order to join QPR.

The striker was targeted by Magpies boss Alan Pardew before Rangers chairman Tony Fernandes offered significantly higher wages and clinched his capture from Marseille for around £8m.

Pardew had been confident of signing Remy and has described the player’s snub as “a little strange”.

Remy says his decision was not made for financial reasons and also denies indicating he would move to St James’ Park and then performing a U-turn.

“I was no closer to joining Newcastle than QPR before the time came when I had to make a decision,” he said.

“I spoke to Alan Pardew and Tony Fernandes. Unlike what has been reported in the press, I was not in the advanced stage of discussions with Newcastle.”

Remy also insists he was not swayed by the opportunity to live in London.

He said: “I had heard Newcastle was in the north and that it’s cold there, but that’s not really important.

“It wasn’t the lifestyle which made the decision for me.”

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