Allardyce fumes at Barton hold-up

The transfer has been stalled by a row over a £300,000 pay-off which Barton, 24, was contractually entitled to if he was sold without requesting a transfer.

City are refusing to pay out because Barton was not forced to leave.

And Allardyce said: "They're out of order. I'm flabbergasted and want the situation resolved."

Barton's agent Willie Mckay has referred the matter to the Professional Footballers' Association, but Allardyce is desperate to get the issue resolved as soon as possible.

606: DEBATE

He said: "I cannot understand it because City didn't pay anything for this player as he came through the youth system and are selling him for over £5m.

"All I know is that this is a matter for Joey to sort out and I hope it is resolved as it has stopped him putting pen to paper."

Both Newcastle and West Ham agreed a fee with City for the England midfielder.

But after travelling to Newcastle last month and meeting with officials, Barton decided to join Allardyce at St James'.

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