Newcastle United did not make a move for £15 million-rated Peterborough defender Ronnie Edwards because the Premier League outfit were focusing instead on attacking reinforcements, Posh chairman Darragh MacAnthony explains on his Hard Truth Podcast.
Much to the delight of manager Grant McCann, England U19 international Edwards will remain a Peterborough player until the New Year at least.
The League One pacesetters refused to budge on their £15 million valuation; turning down a £7.5 million bid from Crystal Palace on deadline day. Patrick Vieira’s side were hardly the only interested party either.
Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea and Manchester City have all been keeping a very keen eye on one of the brightest young talents in the EFL too.
And, given that their recruitment strategy seems to revolve around fresh-faced up-and-comers with substantial re-sale potential, you’d perhaps expect to see Newcastle’s name in the frame for Edwards’ sought-after signature.
But, with the Magpies focusing on the other end of the pitch during the summer months, Edwards was not a player they were every likely to splash out an eight-figure sum on before the September 1st deadline.
How long will Ronnie Edwards stay at Peterborough United?
“(Newcastle director) Dan Ashworth said; ‘We know all about your boy. He is a Rolls Royce of a centre-half. But, we, Newcastle, are looking at the attacking end of the pitch at the moment’,” MacAnthony explains.
Ashworth, he says, had already been made aware of Edwards during his time on the South Coast.
“He said; ‘(Edwards is an) absolute Rolls Royce. Every scout report that went into Brighton, (said he was) unbelievable.’”
In an intriguing twist of fate, Edwards could soon be partnering Newcastle’s very own Kelland Watts at London Road this season. The Alnwick-born 22-year-old joined Peterborough on loan last week from the Magpies.
“(McCann) wanted a left-footed centre-back,” MacAnthony adds. “His first choice was Kell. He was outstanding at Wigan last season when helping them win the League One title.
“We spoke to the Newcastle medical staff. They said his surgery went perfectly and, when he was ready to return, they didn’t foresee any problems.
“Newcastle were very good to us. They said we didn’t have to start paying (his wages) until he played. And if things didn’t work out, he could go back to Newcastle in January. It’s a deal that works for both parties.”
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