The 31-year-old midfielder did travel to Turkey to talk to the club and was paraded in front of fans, but he has not, as they announced, signed an 18-month deal and remains the subject of interest from several other parties.

A statement released by the Magpies this evening read: "Further to reports in various sections of the media today regarding the transfer of Geremi to Turkish side Ankaragucu, Newcastle wish to make it clear that whilst there are a number of clubs interested in possibly acquiring his services, any talk of him leaving St James' Park at this moment is extremely premature.

"Geremi remains a Newcastle player and has today linked up with Cameroon for the African Cup of Nations."

Former Real Madrid, Chelsea and Middlesbrough player Geremi arrived at St James' during the summer of 2007 when then manager Sam Allardyce recruited him for his experience.

He was initially handed the captain's armband, but has struggled to command a regular place in the team, particularly since the departure of the man who signed him.

But he is one of the club's remaining high earners and as current boss Chris Hughton attempts to close in on his January targets - the names of Leeds' FA Cup hero Jermaine Beckford and Sheffield United defender Matt Kilgallon appear high on his list - his removal from the wage bill would free up extra funds.