The lawyer of Newcastle United attacker Hatem Ben Arfa has claimed that his client has snubbed a move to Turkish side Besiktas in favour of staying in England.
It has been reported recently that the 27-year-old was keen to stay with Newcastle beyond the transfer window - which closes on Monday.
Besiktas, who were knocked out of Champions League qualifying by Arsenal on Wednesday, were among those apparently weighing up a move for the Frenchman, but Jean Jacques Bertrand says that the switch is a "no go" due to the limited sporting incentive on offer.
"I received an email from the club confirming that Newcastle had found an agreement with Besiktas for the transfer of the player," Bertrand told French website Foot Mercato.
"I discussed the sporting advantages with his agent Michel Ouazine and Hatem without talking about the figures.
"Finally, Hatem has decided not to go with this offer. He prefers to stay in England and to play at Newcastle. Besiktas, it is therefore a no go."
Ben Arfa's contract at St James' Park expires next summer.
Shane Callaghan
