Lorient forward Alexis Claude-Maurice was apparently a legitimate target for Newcastle in June, with the player allegedly holding out for a move to Borussia Monchengladbach.
Roll on a few weeks, and the player did not get his move, Newcastle moved for Joelinton, and it is newly promoted Norwich City who are being linked with a last minute deal for the striker, according to French publication Le Telegramme.
The player scored a very impressive 14 goals from just 16 appearances in the French second tier last season, and he was being scouted by a host of Premier League clubs.
But as well as Newcastle, West Ham were also in the frame for the player, but with him holding out for his dream move to a big club, which did not materialise, he is in danger of staying at Lorient.
However, the Canaries are set to offer him a lifeline, with a last minute bid of €16.5 million, which will be substantially more than a €12m offer the Ligue 2 club received from Rennes.
Newcastle fans will be happy they turned to Joelinton
The player is unproven at the top level in any league, and Newcastle fans will believe they made the right move turning to Joelinton, who may not have played in the Premier League before, but has a track record in the Bundesliga.
The Brazilian has looked an exciting talent during pre-season, and fans will hope that form transfers to the competitive games ahead.
But for a club like Norwich, Claude-Maurice would be a fantastic signing, and someone who could help them in what is sure to be a scrap at the bottom end of the table.
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