After spending the full month looking for a centre-back, Newcastle United signed Dan Burn at 10.45pm on transfer deadline day.
The search for defensive reinforcements was frustrating, with deals for Sven Botman and Diego Carlos collapsing.
They were big name targets who could’ve transformed our defence. But sadly we were priced out of the duo by Lille and Sevilla respectively.
While two centre-backs were wanted, only one arrived. Plenty of names were linked, particularly from the Premier League. James Tarkowski was mentioned ever since the takeover went through, while Nat Phillips emerged as a potential target from Liverpool.
But the Magpies went for Burn, and the Athletic have explained why.
Dan Burn’s style of play won him Newcastle transfer
According to the Athletic, Tarkowski and Phillips were considered backup options for the Magpies as they chased Botman and Carlos.
However after those deals collapsed, Eddie Howe reportedly opted to go with Burn because of his ability on the ball.
The Toon boss likes his defenders to be comfortable in possession. But before Burn arrived, only Fabian Schar fell into that category.
Despite being a mountain of a man, the new Toon signing is an impressive passer, such is the impact of Brighton boss Graham Potter. That’s why he feels like a guaranteed starter following his £13million move. It could also put Jamaal Lascelles’ place in the starting XI in jeopardy.
While Tarkowski and Phillips may have been more high profile signings in comparison, they perhaps don’t fit the bill of what Howe is looking for as much as Burn. In the end, the England international stayed at Burnley, while Phillips joined Bournemouth on loan in the Championship.
Burn arrives at Newcastle on a two-and-a-half year deal. He’s a local lad back at the club he loves, and it’s very easy to get behind the 29-year-old.
Hopefully Howe’s decision is justified, and Burn’s homecoming goes to plan.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
