Srnicek backs Rozehnal to impress as Allardyce eyes Geremi

Czech Republic defender Rozehnal was due to complete his £2.6million move from Paris St Germain today after successfully undergoing a medical and agreeing terms earlier this week.

The 26-year-old will be the first recruit to Sam Allardyce's new-look defence, and Srnicek, who made an emotional return to St James' Park for a short spell last season, is confident he has what it takes to succeed in the Barclays Premier League.

He said: "To tell the truth, I have not seen a lot of Rozehnal at club level, but I have seen a lot of him playing for the Czech Republic and I have to say I like the look of him.

"He has been the mainstay of our defence in the past couple of years and he is a very good defender.

"In fact in my opinion, he is just what Newcastle United need at the back for next season."

Rozehnal has flown back to the Czech Republic but will return in time for the club's pre-season training camp in Austria next month.

Srnicek became a crowd favourite during his two spells at St James' Park, and he believes Rozehnal can made a similar impact.

He said: "All I would say is for him to enjoy himself, just like I enjoyed myself in my two spells with Newcastle United.

"This is a great opportunity for him and he will know it. He will find like I did that the United supporters are top notch, and I hope that they are as good to him as they were to me."

Rozehnal will not be the last defender to arrive at St James' Park this summer as Allardyce steps up his interest in a series of targets, including 29-year-old Marseille captain Habib Beye.

However, he is looking closer to home for another addition to his squad after setting his sights on Chelsea utility man Geremi.

The 28-year-old Cameroon international is available on a free transfer and would provide cover at both right-back and in midfield.

It is understood the Magpies are one of a series of club's to be talking to the player, who signed for Chelsea in a £7million switch from Real Madrid during the summer of 2003.

Stephen Carr is the club's only specialist on the right side of defence, although midfielder Nolberto Solano filled in admirably for much of last season.

Geremi, who spent a season on loan at derby rivals Middlesbrough from Real earlier in his career, made 28 appearances for the Blues last season.

However, the presence of Paulo Ferreira and Lassana Diarra, as well as the depth of Jose Mourinho's midfield pool mean his chances would be limited at Stamford Bridge.