Leicester forward Islam Slimani has passed his medical at Newcastle United, according to Sky Sports journalist Keith Downie.
The reliable journalist has detailed a major update on his personal Twitter account on deadline day that, despite reports from Algeria saying that Slimani, 29, has failed a medical, the Foxes target man has in fact passed it.
Sources at both Newcastle & Leicester tell us Islam Slimani has passed his Newcastle medical.
— Keith Downie (@SkySports_Keith) January 31, 2018
Algerian news outlet DZ Foot had earlier claimed that Slimani’s imminent switch to St James’ Park had hit the skids with just hours to go before the transfer window slams shut at 11pm.
It was said that his injury was much worse than first feared, but now, according to Sky Sports’ North-East correspondent, that is not the case and the move seems to be going along without a hitch.
Good move for Newcastle?
With fears that this move may have fell through at the last moment, it serves an instant reminder of how vital it is that this signing is completed. Rafa Benitez could have walked that the Magpies could have gone down without a proven goalscorer in their side. Slimani may not have had a good time at Leicester but he has not been given much of a chance. Claudio Ranieri was sacked not long after signing him and since then he has not really started many games.
This is Futbol rating 10/10
Likely to happen?
What a rollercoaster of a day for the Toon Army. It looks very likely that they will finally sign Slimani at some point and the official confirmation may be made after the game against Burnley. This will be a season-defining transfer for the Magpies, they just need to hope his injury does not keep him out for too long.
This is Futbol rating 10/10