Soccer:Newcastle defender Steven Taylor remains happy to continue negotiations over a new contract despite being transfer-listed. The Magpies have confirmed they will listen to offers for the 24-year-old with lengthy talks having to date failed to reach a satisfactory conclusion.
However, a statement released on behalf of Taylor and his agent Paul Stretford revealed the player, who was stunned by the club's move, is keen to resolve the situation.
The statement said: "Figures released to the media do not accurately reflect the position of either Steven or his agent.
"Both remain happy to continue negotiations over a new and extended Newcastle United contract.
"Steven was disappointed and surprised to hear through third parties that the club had decided to transfer list him.
"He has always given 100 per cent to the club and will continue to do so given the opportunity."
Taylor's existing contract is due to expire at the end of the season, but the two parties are understood to be some distance apart in their view of a fair wage.
In the circumstances, the Magpies have decided they may have to cash in on the Academy graduate rather than risk losing him for nothing next summer.
A club statement said: "Newcastle United have today placed defender Steven Taylor on the transfer list.
"The club will be making no further comment at this time."
Greenwich-born Taylor was raised on Tyneside and has been regarded for some time as one of the Academy's most promising graduates.
A former England Under-21 international, his situation has been repeatedly monitored by a series of suitors, and he has been linked in the past with the likes of Chelsea and Liverpool among others.
He was tipped to leave the club in the wake of relegation, but stayed to play in his part in a successful fight for promotion back to the top flight at the first attempt, although his season was ended prematurely by injury.
Taylor is alleged to have suffered a broken jaw in a training ground incident involving Andy Carroll towards the end of the campaign, although the two home-grown products celebrated together on the pitch after Newcastle secured the Championship title.
The club only made its move with great reluctance, believing there was little point in continuing negotiations amid an impasse over wages, and the response from the Taylor camp leaves open the possibility that there may yet be room for manoeuvre.
However, owner Mike Ashley has adopted a strict policy on wages as he attempts to balance the books, and his track record suggests he is not a man who budges readily.
In addition, manager Chris Hughton has hugely experienced former England international Sol Campbell approaching full match fitness, and with Fabricio Coloccini and Mike Williamson forging a partnership and Hungarian youngster Tamas Kadar waiting in the wings, they may feel there is no need to break the bank to keep Taylor.