Newcastle say Barton is free to leave them

The St James’ Park club confirmed yesterday that the 28-year-old, who still has a year of his contract left to run, can leave with immediate effect.

The move comes after another prolonged Twitter outburst from Barton, who has become increasingly disgruntled with off-the-field matters in the North East.

He took to the social networking site to hint at behind-the-scenes unrest, and has seemingly tipped owner Mike Ashley over the edge in the process.

Barton cryptically said earlier yesterday that he would make an announcement about his future at 4pm, but the club pre-empted that by an hour and revealed he was able to leave.

The root of Barton’s unrest can be traced back to the sale of Andy Carroll to Liverpool in January.

It was thought that the one-cap England midfielder was considering signing a new deal at the time, but decided to put his future on hold until the summer after that.

Barclays Premier League newcomers Swansea have agreed personal terms with Newcastle winger Wayne Routledge.

The Welsh club had already agreed an undisclosed fee with the Magpies and the 26-year-old will undergo a medical today and on passing will sign a three-year contract.

Routledge will be joined in south Wales today by Middlesbrough striker Leroy Lita, who will also undergo a medical after a deal worth £1.75m was reached with the Teesside club last week.