Owen cries a "come get me" plea to Premiership clubs

The Michael Owen transfer saga took another twist today as he confirmed that he is in talks with "three or four" Premiership clubs .

"With Real's knowledge there's been brief dialogue although no formal negotiations have taken place."

Owen's comments will interest Real Madrid as they are seeking to recoup at least 16 million pounds for the 25 year old England goal poacher. With that extravagant price tag however,clubs such as Arsenal, and Newcastle could be permanently ruled out from any possible transfer - leaving Manchester United Owen's most likely suitors.

Despite the heated speculation, Owen did not rule out remaining in the Spanish capitol.

"I am off to Austria with the rest of the squad to undertake an important 14-day pre-season fitness program and I do not envisage anything happening during this time".

If Owen were to stay at Real it would leave the Spanish giants with an unprecedented strike force of Ronaldo, Raul, Owen, Robinho, and Baptista. Real's coach Luxembourgo may want to keep as many forwards as possible in order to complete an assault on the League title and the Champions League. Real have not won a major trophy since 2003, after which Del Bosque and former captain Fernando Hierro left the club.