County chase Port Talbot ace (From South Wales Argus)

County chase Port Talbot ace

11:11am Wednesday 6th June 2007

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NEWPORT County last night made an improved offer for Port Talbot midfielder Lee John.

The Exiles had an approach for John turned down in January, but are hopeful of securing an agreement after improving the terms of their original offer.

If the deal goes through it will be the first time under manager Peter Beadle that the Spytty Park outfit have spent a transfer fee.

John, 24, was scouted by the Exiles during the recent Four Nations tournament and his performances have convinced Beadle to make his signing a top priority this summer.

It is understood that Port Talbot demanded £20,000 back in January, but John now has just a year left on his contract and it is hoped that an improved offer will persuade them to part with the exciting winger.

The bid was officially submitted last night and Beadle is hopeful of speaking to Port Talbot manager, and former County goalkeeper, Tony Pennock today.

He explained: "We have followed up our interest in Lee John and have improved the terms of our offer.

"We had him watched in the home nations tournament recently and he was absolutely sensational.

"We want to progress and move forward and feel that ultimately Lee can be a league player in England.

"He needs to be tested as a player and would get that at Newport County and I feel with due respect that the Conference South is a step up compared to the Welsh Premier League."

John starred when Port Talbot were beaten 2-1 by County in the FAW Premier Cup semi-final and scored for the visitors.

He is comfortable anywhere across the midfield and looks to link with the strikers, attributes Beadle appreciates.

"Lee would provide competition for all of my midfielders, he's a dynamic and skilful young player," he said.

Meanwhile, the Exiles have arranged another pre-season friendly against league opposition.

County face Stoke City on Saturday, August 4 and will now also play Bristol Rovers on Wednesday, August 1.

Beadle explained: "I tried to speak with Paul Trollope as Rovers are an old club of mine, but it was Scott Young (County assistant boss) who gets the credit for this one.

"He arranged it with his former Cardiff gaffer Lennie Lawrence who is now Director of Football at Rovers.

"Lennie has promised to send a strong team down and we're delighted, it caps off our pre-season programme really well."

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