Hoffenheim skipper’s comments on Joelinton no surprise to Newcaastle fans

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Joelinton is expected to be announced as a Newcastle player this week, in a record breaking deal from Bundesliga side Hoffenheim, and become our first signing of the summer.

But, according to the Chronicle, ahead of the move, the German side’s captain, Kevin Vogt, has claimed Tyneside will not be the “last step” for the Brazilian striker, with him claiming Newcastle will be merely a stepping stone for bigger things.

The report quotes Vogt said: “As long as he remains healthy, I’m convinced that this is not his last step. I wish him well too, because he is a really great guy.”

Vogt’s comments will not be a surprise to Newcastle fans, who are used to the club being seen as a building block for moves elsewhere.

Yohan Cabaye, Mathieu Debuchy, Georginio Wijnaldum, and others, all came to Newcastle and used St James’ Park as a platform for their next big move.

It is the Mike Ashley way. He literally makes it known through his ‘buy young, sell big’ transfer blueprint – which frustrated Rafa Benitez so much.

That said, should Joelinton be the success both Newcastle and the fans hope, there is no reason why we should not be able to show some ambition by building a team around him, instead of cashing in at the first opportunity.

But signs that the player may be thinking of bigger moves in his future are already there, with the alleged haggling over the length of contract to be signed, with the player wanting to sign a three year deal, but the club wanting it to be four or five years.

Newcastle could build a formidable side if they keep their top youngsters

With the potential of having a team of youngsters like Joelinton, Sean Longstaff, Miguel Almiron, plus any other signings the club may make, it could lead to an exciting era for Newcastle – on the pitch at least.

But as long as Ashley remains as owner, the likelihood of these players staying together for the long-term seems remote, as one big bid would be all it takes to see one – or all – of the young stars sold.

Of course, that is likely to be an argument for another day. For now, fans will just savour the moment of seeing their transfer record smashed for the second time in 2019.