Jens Cajuste was in no mood to hide his disappointment after missing out on a summer move to English football.
“The Premier League would have been fantastic fun,” the 22-year-old sighed after being consigned to another season with FC Midtjylland.
“I was disappointed and I hoped to take the next step. But I have to accept it and make the best of the situation.
“I felt that I was ready to take the next step. But that’s how it is in football. I have to accept this.”
According to the Northern Echo, Newcastle United had expressed an interest in the swashbuckling Sweden international, going as far as to open talks with his representatives.
But, as was so often the case during the Mike Ashley era, it all came down to money. Or a lack, thereof.
Is Jens Cajuste finally heading to Newcastle United?
It is understood that Newcastle held talks with Cajuste in July.
When you consider that the midfielder was obviously enamoured with the prospect of playing Premier League football – ‘fantastic fun’ indeed – you get the feeling he would have relished the opportunity to put pen to paper with Steve Bruce’s side.
But with Midtjylland reluctant to reduce their £13 million asking price, negotiations ended as quickly as they had begun; the fees involved proving to be an unsurmountable obstacle as far as Ashley was concerned.
As you might have heard, things are suddenly looking up for Newcastle United these days.
Cajuste might have been too expensive for a certain Sports Direct tycoon but a £13 million outlay would barely scratch the surface of PIF’s fortune, estimated to be in the region of £360 billion (The Athletic).
Homme du Match reported earlier this week that Newcastle were drawing up plans to renew their interest in Cajuste during the January window, an eight-figure bid under consideration.
And this, signing a player Mike Ashley was unwilling or unable to afford just a few months ago, would be a fitting beginning to a bold new era at St James’ Park.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
