Newcastle once held talks with one of the world’s most expensive players

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So far, Newcastle United have refused to make the kind of superstar signings many would have expected.

Any takeover of Newcastle’s nature was always going to attract links with big names from around the European game and beyond.

While not to suggest money has not been spent on the team since the takeover, Eddie Howe and the recruitment staff have been slightly more nuanced when it comes to making signings.

Still, back in the Champions League next season, it’s hardly far-fetched to imagine big names arriving.

Just because what would generally be considered a marquee name from a major club hasn’t arrived yet doesn’t mean it will never happen.

Which is why comments from journalist Graeme Bailey are interesting.

Newcastle have reportedly held talks with Ousmane Dembele

Speaking on the ‘Chasing the Transfer’ podcast, Bailey suggested Barcelona winger Ousmane Dembele has emerged on Newcastle’s radar before.

Strangely enough, the World Cup winner was recently spotted attending a Sunderland game…

“If they do a marquee signing, I think it may be this left-sided forward. Keep an eye on Ousmane Dembele as a marquee signing,” he said.

“They did talk to him. He came over if you remember, he met the Sunderland chairman and he did have contacts with Newcastle at that point. He’s only got a year left at Barcelona.

“And he does appeal to PIF as well. He’s one I’d throw in there. Keep an eye on Ousmane Dembele in the next window, especially for Newcastle, because they do want a marquee signing.”

Newcastle should steer clear well of Dembele

While Newcastle will surely have to start signing players of such huge profile to keep competing, Dembele looks like the wrong use of funds.

Undoubtedly talented, as his £135.5m move to Barca would suggest, there have been question marks over his attitude and application.

Dembele is also reportedly on huge wages in Spain given his standing as one of the most expensive transfers of all time.

With that in mind, it’s hard to imagine the club ripping up their existing policy to take what would be a huge gamble.