Magpies face fans’ backlash after failing to get City star

NEWCASTLE United have defended their summer transfer activity after a move for Hamza Choudhury broke down on deadline day, writes Jordan Blackwell.

The club have refuted claims they are not investing in the squad available to Steve Bruce, after only one player was signed over the course of the summer transfer window, £25 million midfielder Joe Willock.

Newcastle had tried to organise a loan for Leicester City midfielder Choudhury, just as they had in January, but despite talks going on late into deadline day, an agreement could not be reached.

Reports suggested City had tried to compromise on Choudhury’s wages and on a loan fee in order to help get the move across the line, but a deal never materialised.

After a fan backlash over the perceived lack of investment at St James Park, Newcastle set out their stall in a statement on Friday.

The club said: “The last two years have been challenging, with Covid-19 having a considerable impact on the club’s finances and therefore the amount of cash we have available to spend.

“Internally, all parties have long been aware of the budgetary parameters under which we are operating.

“Ahead of the summer transfer window and having made a significant impact after arriving on loan in January 2021, Joe Willock was identified as the club’s primary target.

“Once it was confirmed that the player would be available on a permanent deal, a collaborative decision was taken to pursue this option.”

Choudhury is yet to play a single minute for City this season.

His game-time is expected to be limited with Wilfred Ndidi, Youri Tielemans, Boubakary Soumare and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall all ahead of him in the midfield pecking order.