"He is a world class striker who deserves good wages."
However, Joe Kinnear said he will "fight like hell" to keep hold of his star striker.
Joe Kinnear: "I've had a good relationship with Michael from day one.
What Peanuts Will Ashley Offer Owen?
"He is a world class striker who deserves good wages."
However, Joe Kinnear said he will "fight like hell" to keep hold of his star striker.
Joe Kinnear: "I've had a good relationship with Michael from day one.
"He's in control of his future. On Tuesday we will sit down to talk things through and his agent will be there.
"I will fight like hell to keep him. I don't see any point taking money for Michael Owen. I would rather have him in my team scoring goals than any amount of cash.
"When I was a player I played with Jimmy Greaves and Michael is very similar."
Michael Owen: "I think every back page today links me with a different club but none of it is my doing and I can't do anything until the club sit down and speak to me.
"Contract negotiations are usually a private thing but with me it never seems to be. It has attracted its fair share of interest over the last few months in particular, what with the takeover."