Football: Gullit in chase for De Boer

NEWCASTLE UNITED'S beleaguered manager, Ruud Gullit, is stepping up his efforts to strengthen the squad.

Although the Magpies have quashed speculation that the Gateshead-born Nottingham Forest midfielder, Steve Stone, could be on his way to St James' Park, the Dutchman is believed to be planning a multi-million pound raid for Ronald de Boer and Didier Domi.

The pounds 3m capture of Domi, the Paris St-Germain full-back, is apparently imminent, while De Boer would signal a major coup for Gullit, who tried to sign Ajax's Dutch international on loan until the end of the season when he arrived at Newcastle.

"Something good is happening," Gullit said. "I can't say yet. But we have made a breakthrough in the transfer market. I've worked hard this week and agreed a fee for a player. I hope I'll be able to announce something very soon, but it is now down to a medical."

Everton's French striker Mickael Madar has signed an 18-month contract with Paris St-Germain, according to reports in Paris.

Nottingham Forest are mourning the death of their former manager, Matt Gillies, who was at the City Ground from 1969 until 1972. He was 77.