Rafa Benitez used his powers of persuasion to get Islam Slimani to reject a move to Serie A giants Roma and join Newcastle instead.
Algeria international Slimani arrived at United from Premier League rivals Leicester on deadline day in a loan deal until the end of the season, putting an end to Benitez’s month-long search for striking reinforcements.
But the Chronicle reports that Slimani would have joined Roma as replacement for Edin Dzeko had the former Manchester City forwards mooted transfer to Chelsea gone through and only a conversation with Benitez influenced the 29-year-old’s decision to sign for Newcastle.
It’s claimed that a telephone call from the Magpies boss “changed everything” and persuaded Slimani to reject the overtures of Roma, West Ham and Monaco and head to Tyneside, where it’s hoped he will provide the goals that will lift Newcastle to safety.
Slimani was absent for the 1-1 draw at Crystal Palace on Sunday with a thigh injury picked up shortly before he signed for United but Benitez is confident his new striker can play some part against Manchester United at the weekend.
