Alan Pardew wants to improve Newcastle squad

Newcastle United manager Alan Pardew is looking to improve his squad rather than sell players ahead of the new Premier League season.

Several Newcastle players, including Hatem Ben Arfa and Demba Ba, have been linked with moves away, but Pardew insists he is looking to bolster his squad and that he has the backing of owner Mike Ashley.

"Despite all of the speculation, we're working to bring a couple of people to improve the squad," Pardew told The Chronicle. "We haven't lost anybody yet.

"Mike has made it clear he is committed to the club and we are working through the process of bringing players in."

Newcastle have qualified for next season's Europa League.