... the latest Sunday newspaper exclusive suggests Newcastle want to offer Albert Luque to Real Madrid as part of a deal to Jonathan Woodgate back to Newcastle (via Middlesbrough of course). England international Woodgate has already turned down Newcastle to join his home-town club on loan, so what makes Shepherd think Woody will make a U-turn in the Summer?
Even more to the point ... does Shepherd REALLY think Real Madrid want a player who isn't good enough for Newcastle Reserves?
Luque has been a misfit on Tyneside after joining just over 18 months ago from Deportivo La Coruna for a ridiculous fee. His performance on Thursday in the UEFA Cup was arguably the most heartless seen by anyone in a Toon shirt since the days of Wayne Fereday!
Don't be surprised if Woody moves on, though. He has won himself another England cap, and that in itself has added £3m to his price tag and given him respectablity. He wants medals, something he didn't get at Newcastle OR Real Madrid for that matter, and he will be in the shop window again in the summer.