Newcastle United have been served a late transfer window bombshell after Islam Slimani failed a medical, according to Algerian news outlet DZ Foot.
The news outlet from Slimani’s home nation claims that the centre-forward’s latest injury blow that he sustained in training is much more serious than first though, causing his move to St. James’ Park to hit the skids with just two hours to go before the transfer deadline.
It is understood that Newcastle were having second thoughts about signing up the ex-Sporting CP forward on loan until the end of the season over worries that they will not be able to strike a permanent agreement in the summer due to a work permit issue.
Slimani has been pictured in the North-East ahead of putting the final touches to his move to the Magpies, but it now appears that Rafa Benitez has been dealt with an absolute hammer blow.
Good move for his medical has failed?
Slimani would have been a brilliant signing, but this is a disaster for Newcastle as it could spark a chain reaction of events that may see Benitez leave Tyneside. The Spaniard has been frustrated by the lack of activity with the club since the promotion the Premier League last season and this breakdown in the striker’s move could be the last straw. It’s desperately unlucky for Newcastle because it all looked so promising at one stage.
This is Futbol rating: 1/10
Likely to happen?
If the reports emanating from Algeria are correct then no, it seems that this deal is dead in the water. Will Newcastle have time to find another striker now? It’s very hard to see that, with all their eggs in one basket.
This is Futbol rating: 1/10