United reported West Ham to the Premier League over the 22-year-old's contract which runs until 30 June 2003.

The club now expect the former Lyon player to turn up for pre-season training next week.

Earlier in the year following an admitted approach to Olivier Bernard by West Ham, Newcastle decided not to report the club to the Premier League.

"West Ham were reminded again at the end of the season by chief operating officer Russell Cushing that the player was under contract to Newcastle United until 2003," said a statement on Newcastle's website.

"Further enquiries by United led to a clear statement by West Ham's chief executive Paul Aldridge during a telephone call that West Ham had in fact recently agreed terms and signed the player because `things change.'"

Bernard now finds himself in an awkward position after insisting that he has played his last game for United because of a lack of first-team opportunities.

"Whatever happens, I do not want to play for Newcastle United and would find it very difficult to go back," said the Frenchman yesterday.

"I was disappointed at my lack of first-team opportunities at St James' Park and that is why I turned down the offer of a new contract."