Left-back confirms offer from NUFC – But reveals why a move didn’t work out

A very frustrating summer saw us chasing last-ditch left back targets and details have emerged of another one that got away, as we failed with a move for Lille left back Hamza Mendyl.

He shone in just 20 appearances for the French side and has ended up moving to German side Schalke, for a reported £8m.

He has only played for Morocco three times which meant he was unlikely to gain a work permit to play in England – and it seems that was the main reasons his move to Tyneside failed to materialise.

Here is what the promising defender had to say on a move to The Premier League falling through;

“Yes, there were offers from Arsenal and Newcastle United. The clubs were interested. But being a Moroccan, it would not have been easy to get a work permit in England.”

There must have been a clear policy of trying to sign a left back for re-sale value purposes, as we also failed with a move for PSG youngster N’Sonki, as he decided to stay in the French capital.

Perhaps if Ashley and Charnley had not left moves to the last minute and backed Rafa when he asked, we might have secured one of these players or moved onto alternative targets.

Instead, we face a season of praying for Dummett to remain fit, when the reality is he should have to fight for his place after an underwhelming start to the season.

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About Simon Riddlesden

Lifelong Newcastle United fan and East Stand season ticket holder. Observations from a supporter who has followed NUFC during Champions League participation and through relegation, taking me from Milan to Scunthorpe.

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