This summer, a number of exciting free agents are set to be on the market. Newcastle and Everton have already set their sights on one – Thomas Muller.
It was Bild who revealed that Newcastle were monitoring the Germany international, who has scored 268 goals throughout his career.
Elsewhere, it was Bild again who claimed that Everton were also sniffing around Muller, who was set to become a free agent in June.
Now, however, the Premier League duo have missed out.
What’s the story?
Well, unfortunately for Eddie Howe and Frank Lampard, Müller will be staying at Bayern Munich after he signed a new two-year contract.
The German giants announced the news in creative fashion, as they asked the 32-year-old to reenact an old photo of himself sitting in his Bayern Munich-themed bedroom.
Müller even signed the contract at his old bedroom desk!
As disappointed as they may be, nobody at St James’ Park or Goodison Park should be surprised by this update.
Müller has been with the Bavarians since 2000, when he was just 11 years of age.
Since then, he has amassed 624 appearances for Bayern Munich, and will undoubtedly go down as a club legend.
Other options for Newcastle and Everton
If the Magpies and the Toffees were specifically searching for a striker on a free transfer this summer, there are other options to choose from.
One name available on a free transfer this summer is Juventus forward Paulo Dybala, who Newcastle are actually said to have sent a contract offer to.
Another is Barcelona winger Ousmane Dembele, who was also on Newcastle’s shortlist in January.
Jesse Lingard, Alexandre Lacazette, Eddie Nketiah, Divock Origi and Gareth Bale are also set to be available for nothing.
Clearly, there are many freebies Howe and Lampard can select from this summer, if they opt to go down that path.
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