Two former Newcastle United players helped sway Yoane Wissa’s mind to make his St James’ Park switch.
Former Newcastle United duo Papiss Cisse and Chancel Mbemba were a key reason behind Yoane Wissa wanting to join the club.
A dramatic deadline day saw the striker - who turns 29 today - drive through the night to secure his move to St James’ Park. Wissa was desperate to join the Magpies all summer in a saga that drew parallels to Alexander Isak’s move to Liverpool.
Ultimately, the former Brentford man got his move for an inflated £55million, with Newcastle left in a tricky position once Isak’s sale was agreed. Wissa will take the No.9 shirt and is set on bagging the goals to help fill the void left by the sulking Swede.
African duo helped Newcastle United
His compatriot, ex-Toon defender Mbemba, was one of Newcastle’s “secret agents” to help secure the deal. He told the club: “(I used to think of) Alan Shearer, Demba Ba, Papiss Cisse, the duo. Especially in France, it was crazy because they came from Africa, so I’m really proud.
“I spoke as well with Chancel Mbemba, who has been here (at Newcastle). He wanted to make it happen because he really enjoyed it here. The black and white is something I really wanted since day one.”
Papiss Cisse involvement
Papiss Cisse - who once donned Wissa’s iconic No.9 shirt - also played his part. The ex-Senegal international sent him a well-wishing message following his arrival.
“Hello Yoane, congratulations for your signing,” he said. “I wish you all the best and good luck, and I hope you’re going to enjoy your season.”
“The one thing I can tell you, you are going to get amazing support from the Newcastle fans because they are amazing, black and white Geordie boys, now you are a Geordie boy. I wish you all of the best for your season. Good luck, take care brother.”
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Yoane Wissa’s first words
Wissa said after the move: “I’m really happy to be here and to sign for one of the biggest clubs in the Premier League. I’m very, very excited to put on the black and white shirt. I’ve got dreams, I’ve got faith, and now I will do my best to make it all happen. I can’t wait to get started.
Eddie Howe added: “Yoane is a player who we have admired for some time and we’re delighted to have him on board. He brings proven Premier League quality, demonstrated not only by his goalscoring output but also the crucial work he does for the team. Yoane’s style of play will excite our supporters and complement our style of play - he has pace, power and an excellent work rate. He immediately makes us stronger.”
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