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Coloccini given deadline to resolve future

Fabricio Coloccini wants to return to his native Argentina © Getty Images

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• News: Coloccini wants to leave Newcastle
  

San Lorenzo have told Fabricio Coloccini to say whether he wants to join them by next Monday.

The Argentine club - for whom Newcastle defender Coloccini used to play - swiftly emerged as a likely destination after the defender told the Magpies he wanted to leave and return to his homeland.

Coloccini, 30, is reported to have made that request for personal reasons. His father, Osvaldo, works for San Lorenzo and earlier this week said his son wanted to find an "elegant way" to depart Tyneside.

He added: "It's difficult because he is key for them. He's an idol and the people love him. He wants an amicable departure in order to not cast aside everything he has done [at the club]."

But Newcastle would have to release Coloccini from the long-term contract he signed last year in order for him to be able to join San Lorenzo, who could not otherwise afford to bring him to the club.

San Lorenzo president Matias Lammens told TyC Sports: "We were always very clear and we said that it depends on the player. We are going to offer him a good contract. He wants to come, and I have hope that it can be done. We understand the people of Newcastle - it is hard to let a player like him leave.

"But Coloccini has to end his contract. We depend on the feelings of the player and on what he can negotiate in England. We can't buy his transfer. He is an elite player. San Lorenzo can only point to Coloccini's feelings and not to his pocket. He has personal problems and wants to return to Argentina. We can only offer him a good contract."

He said Coloccini would be an "emblem" if the club could bring him in, but Newcastle manager Alan Pardew has said he remains hopeful the player will stay on Tyneside.

Speaking earlier this week, Pardew said Newcastle officials would hold further talks with Coloccini, and added: "He played very well [at Norwich on Saturday], and the love from the fans is important for any player.

"That can't do anything but help us. There has been a lot written - most of it rubbish. I'll speak to him this week and hopefully come to a resolution. He is an important player in terms of calmness and assurance."

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