This summer’s transfer window is already off to a reasonably bad start for Newcastle United.
While a deal to sign Lloyd Kelly is reportedly close, Newcastle were dealt a rather significant blow on Saturday.
Indeed, despite positive talks with Fulham’s Tosin Adarabioyo, it is in fact Chelsea who now lead the race to sign the defender on a free transfer after his contract expired at Craven Cottage.
Clearly, that is unwelcome news for everyone on Tyneside.
Chances to sign Premier League proven players in their mid-twenties on free transfers hardly come around all the time, after all.
Still, some more insight into what actually happened with Adarabioyo has now emerged.
What Newcastle quickly decided about Tosin Adarabioyo after Chelsea hijack
According to The Northern Echo, Newcastle still could have made a counter-offer after Chelsea’s bid.
However, decision-makers at St James’ Park quickly decided their offer was lucrative enough and they were not willing to improve on it just because of rival interest.
Signing the 26-year-old was obviously viewed as an attractive prospect but committing too much money would almost certainly impact their ability to invest in other areas this summer.
PIF have already made their point on Newcastle transfers
Disappointing as it may be, at least PIF are sticking to their principles.
Despite the many millions they have available (albeit FFP limitations mean they can’t fully spend them), the owners do not like being held to ransom.
Newcastle have previously pulled out of deals for the likes of Jesse Lingard and Hugo Ekitike when they became too expensive.
They are not willing to splash the cash for the sake of it and will not be taken for a ride.
Frankly, having such a sensible structure in place must be better for the long-term prospects of the club than paying whatever people ask for.
The post Report: What Newcastle decided about Tosin Adarabioyo after transfer bid was hijacked appeared first on Geordie Boot Boys.