Most Newcastle fans were delighted at their side finally making a breakthrough in the transfer market.
News that Florian Lejeune was at St James’ Park undergoing a medical was met with relief as much as excitement as the first major signing since promotion reached towards the finishing tape.
For almost three weeks it seemed that a deal was close to completion but for one reason or another days turned into weeks with the Frenchman remaining an Eibar player.
Reports that Rafa Benitez was close to quitting spread like wildfire but those that know the Spaniard never expected him to walk away.
another cheap frenchie I’ve never heard of – might have Rafa Keith but some things really don’t change!
— Lewis Muir (@LewisMuir) July 3, 2017
Eibars best player last season, Arsenal and Roma were both seriously interested in him too. We did well to get him.
— Ricky Palfreman (@NothingMainly) July 3, 2017
Arsenal enquired in January, wether it was serous interest or not we will never know, but he’s a player above what S/land could get
— shaunmcdowell (@shaunstockton1) July 3, 2017
Can’t even believe we been haggling how to pay not even 9m
— David Urwin (@DiddyNUFC) July 3, 2017
— #RAFALUTION • II ☆ (@DaNyLNUFC) July 3, 2017
With the players back for pre-season training today the arrival of Lejeune is a well timed boost with great expectations on the shoulders of the Frenchman.
Eibar are expected to receive just under £9m for the 26-year-old with Benitez putting an emphasis on bringing in experienced players ready to go straight into the side for the challenge of the Premier League.
