The German international was followed by Newcastle United back in 2008.
Former Newcastle United coach Terry McDermott has been speaking to Liverpool podcast 5times about the Magpies’ failed pursuit of Bastian Schweinsteiger back in 2008, with his comments later published online by the Daily Star.
While the German international is currently in limbo at Manchester United, eight years ago he was a widely regarded as one of the best midfielders in Europe and according to McDermott, Newcastle thought they could bring him to St. James’ Park as a replacement for James Milner.
Speaking to 5times, McDermott reflected, “Kevin (Keegan) said if we sell him for £15million how are we going to replace him?
“They said, ‘We’ve already got one, Schweinsteiger.’ But after he’s (Milner) signed for Villa – the day after – we’re trying to sign Schweinsteiger and the answer was ‘absolutely no chance, it will cost you £50million’.”
We all know what happened next, with the German international going on to make 500 appearances for Bayern, scoring 68 goals and providing 100 assists in the process.
He has had less luck at Manchester United, featuring 31 times last season, scoring just once and setting up two more before being cast aside under the Jose Mourinho regime.
Newcastle fans may be disappointed to have missed out on the player all those years ago, but they are currently enjoying something of a renaissance in the Championship under manager Rafa Benitez.
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