NEWCASTLE’S sporting director insists that Bruno Guimaraes’ price tag satisfied the hierarchy – despite their disappointment.
Ross Wilson admitted that the Brazilian’s £75million move in August only came true after drawn-out talks reached an agreement, with Newcastle slamming several offers.
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Guimaraes, 28, was a cornerstone in the Magpies’ set-up, but the ex-skipper pushed for an Emirates move once he learned of the interest.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Wilson said: “We did not want to lose Bruno Guimaraes.
“That was really disappointing that we got to that place in the end, albeit we were happy where we got to in terms of numbers (the fee).
“That was not part of our plan. Everything else that happened during the window was part of the plan.”
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But the money was rolling in for the Geordies who sold Guimaraes, as well as £100m Sandro Tonali and £70m Anthony Gordon to Tottenham and Barcelona respectively.
Meanwhile, Toon flop Nick Woltemade left for Juventus on loan.
Wilson insisted: “Genuinely, it never felt chaotic inside. There is no point us pretending otherwise.
“That does not mean that every single player (who signed) was the number one name on our list, but that is never the case in any transfer window.
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“Clearly we were disappointed a couple of times but, again, that’s normal.”
Newcastle’s hectic window dominated headlines with the likes of Victor Munoz and Johan Manzambi snubbing St James’ Park for other Premier League teams.
Matias Fernandez-Pardo is a blockbuster move for the Mags in a £51.4m deal.
Meanwhile, Nico Gonzalez switched from Manchester City and Amar Dedic arrived from Benfica.
The North-East outfit have also sealed promising deals with youngsters Bazoumana Toure and Aladji Bamba – who are both 20.
And even familiar face Nick Pope has been sidelined by newcomer Lukas Hornicek.
Wilson said: “No club goes into the window and reaches the end getting every target they set out to get. If they say they did, it is a lie.
“We have built a squad for the season. That doesn’t mean we might not make further alterations to it in January.”
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Similarly, Arsenal had a tumultuous window with Ezri Konsa and Christos Tzolis joining Mikel Arteta’s ranks.
And even Guimaraes’ entrance has been tainted after a shuddering start since his 45 minute debut in the Community Shield.
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He was later spotted with ice on his right thigh, before missing Coventry and picking up a knock against Aston Villa.
In the Gunners’ 2-1 win over Chelsea, he was an unused substitute but some have tipped Guimaraes for a Champions League return against Napoli on Tuesday night.