Jamaal Lascelles has shared on The Getting Messi Podcast that both Arsenal and Everton were interested in signing him as a teenager.
Now a first-team player, and captain, at Newcastle, the powerful centre-back stated that there ‘definitely’ was interest from both parties and he even was at Everton’s training ground.
The 27-year-old started his career at Nottingham Forest before making a switch to St James’ Park in 2014.
But it seems it could have transpired a lot different for the Newcastle man, who has been a solid performer in the Premier League since his switch from the City Ground.
“The Arsenal interest, it was there,” said Lascelles. “I think it was definitely there. I cannot remember who my agent was at the time.
“But not much was fed back to me because I was 18 and concentrating on my job. My Dad wanting it to not affect me or my ego. That was kind of kept away from me.
“The Everton thing, I actually went to the Everton training ground and had a look around and stuff. They were interested. I am not sure why it didn’t happen but they were interested as well. As a kid, there has always been paper talk and speculation.”
At the time of interest, Arsene Wenger would have still been at the helm in North London, whilst David Moyes would have been in charge at Goodison Park.
It could be argued that this summer, both teams could have done with a player of his quality for their previously struggling backlines.
But Arsenal opted to push for Gabriel, whilst the Toffees signed Ben Godfrey following his relegation with Norwich.
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