Wigan Athletic’s Kyle Joseph has snubbed interest from Newcastle United and could instead move to Swansea City, according to Football Insider.
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The 19-year-old had been strongly linked with a move to St James’ Park, along with the likes of Celtic and Rangers, though has seemingly opted to join the Welsh side instead.
Indeed, they are said to have moved quickly to wrap up a deal for the Scotsman and will pay around £1m in compensation.
Is this a blow for Newcastle?
Obviously, to suggest a young player moving elsewhere is a huge blow for the club would be a touch hyperbolic. Indeed, Joseph has only played 20 games for the Wigan first-team, so it’s hard to make any definitive judgement as to how his career will pan out from here.
Still, given the level of interest in him, the fact Newcastle seemingly won’t be signing him has to be seen as a blow. After all, the club’s financial situation looks bleak at the moment so it’s not as if there appears to be much scope to bring in top-level attacking reinforcement.
Joseph scored five times in League One last season so has certainly shown an ability to make an impact at senior level. As a talented young option, he may well have been a useful back-up to the likes of Callum Wilson, albeit somewhat of a risk.
Risks on young players may be necessary, however. With Steve Bruce seemingly working on a limited transfer budget, bringing in top-level reinforcement to compliment what the club already have doesn’t appear to be a realistic notion.
Back in April, The Daily Mail claimed Newcastle were in fact leading the race to sign him. With that in mind, it has to be seen as an unwelcome blow for the club.
Only time will tell just how much they live to regret it.
