Agent rules out star exit

Davide Santon has pledged his future to Newcastle after his agent dismissed further rumours linking him with a return to Italy.

The defender only signed for the Magpies from Inter Milan last summer but AS Roma have already failed with one bid to take him back to Serie A while Lazio were linked with a move over the weekend. Santon recently admitted his delight after Newcastle turned down the offer from Roma as he is keen to prove himself at St James Park and now his agent has denied the Lazio link. Renzo Contratto revealed: "I rule out his return to Italy. There are no negotiations with other clubs. He wants to remain at Newcastle. The market may always open up new scenarios, but for now this is the situation." The 21-year-old has struggled with injuries since signing but is now back to full fitness and is hoping to force his way into the Magpies first-team this season.