Steve Bruce has refused to play down a potential move for Inter Milan winger Valentino Lazaro – and has also revealed that talks with Mike Ashley went “very well” this week.
This comes from the Newcastle boss’ press conference in the last few moments, with him quizzed on transfers and his ‘meeting’ with Mike Ashley – which was believed to have taken place on Tyneside earlier this week.
Here’s what he had to say when asked how his talks with the NUFC owner went:
“It went very well.
“We showed what we’re trying to do and he was very supportive of that. He was interested in who we were looking at.’
“We have said that the targets have to improve us. He has been fully supportive of the remit.
“He agrees we buy quality not quantity. That has to be the mantra.”
“There’s funds available if we need it – but that has always been the case.
“He was interested in who we are looking at and what positions.
“He took a genuine interest. We have had one or two in mind and we will see if we can pull them off.
“When you’re going for big players there’s competition. We’re trying everything we can to pull them off. I’ve had my targets in mind since September.”
“We’ve had one or two in mind and we’ll see if we can pull them off,”
“Obviously, when going for big players, there’s a bit of competition down the line somewhere.
“We hope we can pull them off. We’re trying everything we possibly can.”
“There’s lots (of players) available but maybe not of the right quality.
“We’ve identified 1 or 2 we think can make the difference & let’s hope we can get 1 or 2 over the line.
“I’ve got to let 1 or 2 go out because we have to make room in the squad”
Positive comments, but time will tell if Bruce actually receives the backing to make the signings of these ‘big players’ a reality over the coming fortnight.
Bruce was then asked about overnight reports from Italy claiming we’ve lined up a loan deal for Inter Milan wide man Valentino Lazaro.
Here’s what he had to say in response:
“It would be unfair to comment on individuals.”
“We’ve been linked with 58 players and he’s the latest.
“I don’t want to comment on that one just yet…”
Is Bruce giving a typically non committal response which gives nothing away, or does that last line suggest it’s a deal we have lined up – but he doesn’t want to make any major comment until it’s done?
We shall see!
Did he actually say “pull them off” that many times lmao.
Must be a journalist thing to repeat repeat and repeat.
Come to Newcastle to get pulled off. 😛
Cocobear(Quote)
Another Winger…. -rolls eyes-
Ash(Quote)