Newcastle Jets owner Con Constantine has scoffed at claims from North Queensland Fury counterpart Don Matheson that they will struggle to sign FC Basle midfielder Scott Chipperfield. "How would Don Matheson know?" Constantine asked. "Why would he comment on our business?

"If he wants to make speculation, it must be because his nose is out of joint about Jade North."

Constantine said he intended to bring Chipperfield and his family to Newcastle when the Socceroo returns for the World Cup qualifier against Uzbekistan in Sydney on April 1.

"I spoke to his agent today and he said nothing has changed," Constantine said. "He will still be coming to Newcastle so we can show him what we have to offer.

"We're hopeful, but until he signs on the dotted line, we can't say for sure."