Real Sociedad star Willian Jose has confirmed he turned down the chance to join Newcastle United last year.
The Brazilian striker was regularly linked with a move to St James’ Park during Rafa Benitez’s time at the club, however the 27-year-old has revealed today that he rejected our offer in 2018 in favour of remaining in Spain.
Here’s what he had to say when speaking to Marca about a potential move to England – claiming that he once had the chance to join Newcastle:
“The Premier (League) is the best championship in the world but La Liga is not far behind.
“For me, the best team is Real Madrid and then Barcelona.
“I could have been in the Premier (League) but I am in the right place.
“I want to play in the Premier League one day but for now I am happy here.
“I had an option to go to Newcastle last year (but) I am happy at Real Sociedad and I ended up staying (rather than going to Newcastle).”
With these new claims in mind, it’s interesting to look back on something the Chronicle’s Lee Ryder reported this time last year.
In late October (2018), he claimed that the club had made a £35m bid for Willian Jose, but stated a deal ‘never came close’.
He’s been one of La Liga’s most consistent strikers over the 50 goals over the past few seasons, however I don’t expect him to be arriving on Tyneside now he’s set to turn 28 next month – even if he’s planning to play in the Premier League one day.
