Newcastle's unregistered Jonas Gutierrez set to miss season opener against Manchester United

Kevin Keegan's plans for the new season are in disarray - because new signing Jonas Gutierrez is not yet registered to play against Manchester United.

The Argentine star was hailed as Keegan's big capture after joining three weeks ago, but the Spanish FA has refused to release his international clearance in a row over the way the winger quit Real Mallorca.

Gutierrez bought himself out of the last two years of his club contract, but the Spaniards wants 15 million euros in compensation and have kept his registration.

Fifa bosses are set to rule on the case but, with time running out, Keegan is unlikely to be able to choose his first-choice team for Sunday's opener.

And adding to the confusion, United have yet to confirm whether Fabrizio Coloccini has completed his move from Deportivo La Coruna

a week after the Spanish club said it was a done deal, leaving his involvement at the weekend in doubt. A club spokesman was not available for comment.

Keegan could be without a fit goalscorer on Sunday after Oba Martins flew abroad for treatment to his knee injury that has flared up.

United held an open training session at St James's Park yesterday with just 12 outfield players.

Keegan's lack of resources were exposed, as a host of players were missing through injury including Martins, Mark Viduka, Habib Beye and Claudio Cacapa, as 12,000 supporters turned up to watch in the rain.

England striker Michael Owen and Abdoulaye Faye, who have not yet kicking a ball in pre-season, were confinded to a gentle jog. Owen will take part in a behind-closed-doors friendly today to assess his fitness after calf trouble and mumps.

United have lined up a loan move for Juventus star Tiago Mendez. The Portugal midfielder will decide today whether to switch to Tyneside on a year loan with a view to a £8million permanent switch next summer.

Shola Ameobi is on the brink of a move to Ipswich or Norwich after opening talks yesterday that could raise Keegan pds 3 million. Faye is also wanted by Stoke for £2million.

For transfer stories and rumours throughout the day, check out our Football Spy blog

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