January target reveals why he rejected £7m offer from NUFC - despite it being a 'dream move'..
Just weeks after a £7m bid was reported, Rennes left-back Faitout Maouassa has confirmed that he turned down a move to Newcastle last month.
Obviously we've now ended up with Monaco's Antonio Barreca on loan with an option to buy and could've easily ended up with Jordan Lukaku barring his failed medical, but it seems we also made a move for Maouassa.
Here's what the Frenchman has said to L'Equipe when questioned about our reported bid:
"I must admit, with Newcastle, it did shock me because everyone dreams of playing in the Premier League,"
"But I was not ready. I still have to grow."
In fairness, a move for Maouassa would've seemed a little odd given he's just 20 and is currently on loan at Nimes after struggling for regular game time with Rennes.
He's a French U-20 international and is known for his versatility, being able to play anywhere down the left or right, but a player with his lack of experience would be jumping in at the deep end if he joined a Premier League relegation battle.
That said, he seems like one to keep an eye on in future transfer windows. Here's him in action:
