The English Premier League side, Newcastle United, is likely to be the new home of Chinese football captain Zheng Zhi, who has just completed a less than stellar stint at the Asian Cup.

Local media have reported that Zheng's overall capabilities make him highly attractive to the team's new manager, Sam Allardyce, who is working on a reform of the Magpie's line-up.

The team is striving for a renaissance under the guidance of the Bolton's ex-boss, the report says. The team, undermined by inner factions, was plagued by awful performances in both league and European matches last season.

In an interview with a Chinese domestic media outlet, Zheng confirmed that he will return to England in the near future, saying he is confident of performing better than last season.

Zheng was transferred from Shandong Luneng to Charlton earlier this year. He decided to leave the team after they were relegated to the Championship League.
 
 (CRI.cn July 20, 2007)