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Norway's Molde F.K. Club make offer for NYRed Bulls Jean Philippe Peguero

Transfer Bid Up to 800K

Jason Endres · June 23, 2006

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ (MNN) - Earlier this week, sources told NyNjsoccer that a Norwegian club has made an offer for New York Red Bulls forward Jean Philippe Peguero.

"So, far I think the bid's up to $800,000," said Red Bulls Head Coach Mo Johnston.

Molde F.K, the club that is most actively pursuing the Red Bulls forward, has been following Peguero during his recent goal scoring streak. "They've been watching him the last month and they like what they see," Johnston said.

The Red Bulls coach is do everything possible to keep Peguero in New York including giving him a new contract. "I spoke to [Managing Director] Marc De Grandpre and I asked if there's a possibility he can secure him on a longer deal. They're looking into it."

"Look, he doesn't want to leave. He wants to stay," explained Johnston.

However, at the same time, the former Scottish International realizes that soccer is also a business. "He's a young kid from Haiti, he doesn't make much money and if he goes there and makes maybe two to three hundred grand a year. Look, I'm happy for him, but I'd rather he stay here."

Johnston realizes the importance to the fans to hold onto the talented forward. "When you have someone who's a green card, he's 25 years old... The fans don't need another one coming and another one going. Then you have to go out and look again. Then you're looking at next year."

When given a chance to respond to talks of being transferred to Norway, Peguero emphasized that he wants to remain in New York. "I'm not looking at other options," said the Haitian forward. "All I know is I'm happy to be here."

The Red Bulls leading goal scorer stated his desire to win a championship with the Red Bulls this year. "I'm here for a reason. My reason is to help the team and to go forward. I think we have a great team. So, we can win the championship this year," said Peguero.

Since joining the New York Red Bulls on April 21, Peguero has been nothing short of sensational. The 25-year-old forward, who has ten caps for the Haitian National Team, has scored six goals in his first seven games, quickly moving up the MLS Budweiser Golden Boot leaderboard.

Jean Phillipe Peguero's contract runs through 2008.