Report reveals unpredicted defensive signing that got away for Newcastle

Atletico Madrid defender Felipe has been named as one that got away for Newcastle United in the closing stages of the January transfer window.

It was a busy month for Newcastle in their first transfer window since their Saudi-backed takeover. They entered the New Year with the hope of attracting high-calibre targets with their newfound wealth.

Ultimately, they managed to bring in five players, of varying pedigree. The first arrival was Kieran Trippier and he was followed by Chris Wood, Bruno Guimaraes, Matt Targett and Dan Burn.

There were many more links that never materialised, though. Eddie Howe particularly wanted to strengthen at centre-back, but only brought in Burn in that regard.

Now, Cadena Cope have revealed that Newcastle made a move for Atletico defender Felipe on deadline day.

Atletico themselves wanted to sign a centre-back to upgrade upon Felipe, who in turn would have strengthened the Newcastle backline.

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Ultimately, the plan never fell properly into place. Therefore, the 32-year-old remains at Atletico’s disposal.

Felipe’s contract in the Spanish capital expires at the end of the season, though. If Newcastle retain an interest by then, he could be available for free.

But the Magpies will have plenty of time to shuffle their shortlist around before that stage. First, their focus must be on securing Premier League status for next season to help convince further targets to join in the summer.

Newcastle defender target confirms interest

One defender they could revisit is Sven Botman. They tried to take the impressive Lille stopper in the winter, but have been made to wait by his current club.

Since, though, Botman has revealed his plans to leave the Ligue 1 champions at the end of the season. There will be a long queue for his signature, but Newcastle may remain in it.

He told Ziggo Sport: “I can confirm both Newcastle and AC Milan were concrete options this winter.

“Both were good options for me. I assume that I will take a good step in my career next summer.”

His agent, meanwhile, is fine with Lille’s decision to keep him in France, adding: “There was indeed a lot of interest.

“There were also bids from several clubs, but ultimately no club was able to meet the asking price that Lille have in their head.

“No price was ever mentioned, and now they have decided simply not to sell him.

“They have become champions and are now playing Champions League. It’s only his second season in a top league at a nice club, so it’s not a disaster to stay.”

READ MORE: Club president cites ‘project’ as big reason why Newcastle transfer for star attacker failed