A clause in the Barton's contract entitles him to a £300,000 'compensation' pay-off if he is sold without asking for a transfer.

While the bad-boy midfielder did not hand in an official transfer request, the City board are withholding payment because they say Barton was eager to speak to both Newcastle and West Ham, and the move is not against his will.

While Barton's agent Willie McKay has referred the matter to the Professional Footballers' Association, the impasse could scupper Newcastle's £5.5 million purchase, prompting a furious Allardyce to criticise City.

"They are out of order. This is a private matter, a confidential issue that should not have been made public. I'm flabbergasted and want the situation resolved," he said.

"I am just trying as Newcastle manager to secure a player of this kind and quality and the deal has been held up.

"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 £5million.

"It's not really for me to comment. 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."