Newcastle United have initially spent less than originally thought for the captures of both Yoshirnori Muto and Federico Fernandez, according to journalist Alan Nixon.
The Sun reporter made the surprise revelation on his personal Twitter account, with the pair two of five permanent signings this summer, Martin Dubravka and Fabian Schar captured on pre-arranged clauses and Ki Sung-Yeung arriving on a free transfer.
The Guardian claimed that Muto cost the Magpies £9.5million while the Sun quote a price tag of £6million for deadline day signing Fernandez, but Nixon states that the initial outlay on the duo is less than expected.
Opinion
It appears as though Newcastle United have secured even more of a bargain than initially thought for the pair. The Magpies have never been massive spenders under owner Mike Ashley but they have been significantly more frugal this summer than ever before, relying on temporary deals and cheap signings to bolster the first team squad. While Fernandez is a proven Premier League performer with Swnasea, it remains to be seen how Muto deals with the rough and tumble of the English top flight, having hardly set any other divisions alight with his displays up front. His goal scoring record is nothing spectacular but with Salomon Rondon arriving from West Brom, the pressure will be off the Japanese international to hit the ground running. In fact, he may well face a fight to see any sort of first team action for a while, with Joselu also battling it out to feature after what was a disappointing first campaign at St James’ Park.