Newcastle United endured a hectic deadline day - and it could have become even more dramatic.
Newcastle United reportedly rejected an enquiry from Bayer Leverkusen for Sven Botman on deadline day.
The final hours of the window were already hectic as Toon chiefs thrashed out deals for Alexander Isak and Yoane Wissa. One striker left, another signed as Newcastle aimed to steady the ship following a chaotic summer.
Will Osula almost headed for the exit door before the Magpies pulled the plug on the deal. It is understood that Eintracht Frankfurt felt confident in securing a season-long loan with an option-to-buy clause next year.
However, Newcastle blocked the Osula deal at the final hurdle. While not confirmed, the fact that club officials were sweating on Yoane Wissa’s arrival until the final moments has been touted as a possible explanation.
Sven Botman claims emerge
German outlet Kicker claim Leverkusen made a cheeky approach for Botman. This was swiftly knocked back by the Magpies, who view the Dutchman as the long-term answer at centre-back.
Botman helped Newcastle secure Champions League qualification in his debut season but has been hampered by injuries since. Dan Burn appears undroppable at the heart of defence, although the duo played alongside Fabian Schar in a back three last weekend.
Leverkusen loaned Piero Hincapie to Arsenal on deadline day - leaving them a defender short. Ultimately, the Bundesliga club failed to land a replacement after a move for Botman failed.
Sven Botman and Alexander Isak
Botman was Isak’s best friend at Newcastle and risked the wrath of supporters by wishing him well following his controversial exit. He posted on Instagram: “What started off as teammates grew into one of my rare best friendships. No more words needed brother, all the best in your next chapter.”
Jamie Reuben reflects on Newcastle United’s summer transfer window
Reflecting on Newcastle’s transfer window, Reuben sent a text to talkSPORT presenter Jim White, which was read out live on air. In the message, Reuben said he is “really pleased” with the players signed and states that the club remains in a healthy financial position.
“It has been a very long window,” he wrote. “Feeling delighted to have the team now in a really strong position.
“Competition in every position and in a healthy financial state too. I think we turned over something like fifteen players plus since January, in and out, and that is why I believe this is a transformational window and we are really pleased with the players we have got in.”
Continue Reading