Yohan Cabaye refuses to play for Newcastle United after learning of Arsenal bid

Alan Pardew wants the Cabaye situation resolved as soon as possible so he can work on signing a replacement. (Getty Images)

Newcastle United midfielder Yohan Cabaye refused to play in the club’s goalless draw to West Ham United at St. James’s Park on Saturday after learning of Arsenal’s £10m bid.

The Frenchman travelled to Manchester City with the Newcastle squad for the season opener but withdrew from the game for the same reason. Newcastle lost that game 4-0.

Newcastle described Arsenal’s bid for Cabaye as ‘derisory’.

“It is quite simple – we need to resolve the situation,” manager Alan Pardew said after the club second game of the season.

Pardew also added that if the deal were to happen, it should be completed quickly, so that they can reinvest the funds in replacing him.

“We need to get ourselves in a position where if he stays, great, and if he doesn’t stay we need to get someone equally as good.”

“There should be business from us, business that is right for Newcastle where our fans get in a position where they really want to believe in the team,”