Time will tell if Newcastle United will regret €10m decision

Manchester United signed a player who was being monitored by Newcastle United.

Newcastle United joined a list of several clubs that did not complete any deals on transfer deadline day. The Magpies are known for their last-minute transactions, but they surprisingly handled business early on.

Fans, along with the front office at St. James’ Park, are satisfied with the talent they brought in, and Callum Wilson is already proving to be a stellar investment with four goals in just as many games to start the season.

Despite making five signings before the season began, the Toon Army was hoping to see at least one central defender and one striker to come in on loan. The back line is unfortunately injury prone, and the back up strikers do not have what it takes to effectively fill in for Wilson if he is sidelined.

It is all over now that the deadline has passed, but one summer target is worth discussing. Newcastle United expressed interest in Uruguay’s rising star Facundo Pellistri, but never acted on that interest. The 18-year-old midfielder was available for £9m, but Manchester United ended up taking a chance on his potential yesterday.

Pellistri is a technical midfielder who maneuvers his way around defenders with ease, and also boasts great pace and good vision. Pellistri has a high work rate, but he does not have an eye for goal.

The last note is reflected in the fact that he only has one goal to his name in 26 appearances for Penarol in Uruguay’s top flight.

Steve Nickson – Newcastle United’s head of recruitment – liked a lot of what he saw in the youngster, but the price tag is what turned the front office away. Instead, Newcastle United turned their attention to 21-year-old Peruvian midfielder Ricardo Vilca.

Vilca made his move to Newcastle United official yesterday, and it is reported that he only cost Mike Ashley a mere £250,000. Yeah, that is definitely the type of bargain he loves.

Vilca will begin his career with the Magpies in the academy for further development before getting his chance with the first team next summer. Pellistri, on the other hand, is expected to show what he can do at Old Trafford from day one.

It remains to be seen how things will play out. Pellistri will either be one of those young talents that got away from Newcastle United, or a youngster with plenty of hype, but does little to impress.