Newcastle United were interested in signing Maximo Perrone during the January transfer window, and now the midfielder has spoke out after the Magpies failed to bring him to St James’ Park.
The youngster has joined Manchester City instead. He signed a five-and-a-half year deal with Pep Guardiola’s side, costing £8million from Velez Sarsfield.
It will not take much from Perrone to prove he was a worthwhile investment. He has not cost Manchester City a huge amount of money, and has the potential to really excel in the Premier League.
The 20-year-old has joined the best team in the country, and has now spoke about his decision to move to the Etihad Stadium despite rumours of interest from Newcastle.
Maximo Perrone speaks about his move to Manchester City
The Argentinian has spoke to Manchester City’s official website about his January transfer.
“Everything Pep says will help me. I’m here to grow and here I have the best possible help,” he said.
“Yes, (Man City’s style of football) is the style of football I’ve always enjoyed. I define myself as a player who loves to have the ball, enjoys passing, and obviously I will get stuck in to recover the ball.
“I keep myself calm. I know I’m here to grow and that’s my goal.
“(Everyone has welcomed me) very well. I met a very good group of people, above all. I have to train. My goal is to train, give my best in every training session, and then things will come whenever they come.
“There’s no better place than this right now.”
Perrone could have been ideal for Newcastle
Based on Perrone’s comments, it sounds like he would have been the perfect addition to Eddie Howe’s squad. The Toon boss was keen to bring in a new midfielder – ideally someone who could play in the number six role.
That is where Bruno Guimaraes operates right now, but he could be better used higher up the pitch.
To succeed in that role in Howe’s side, you need to be confident in possession. You must be willing to receive the ball in tight spaces and be able to progress the play up the pitch. You must also be defensively switched on, and be able to protect the defence with your tackling ability and reading of the game.
Perrone sounds like he has those attributes in his locker. He enjoys a tackle as much as he loves passing the ball. And at £8million, he was an affordable option for the Magpies.
There were reports in South America that Newcastle were looking to complete a deal, while the Athletic also stated that Perrone was a target for Dan Ashworth.
However, Man City won the race to secure his signature, and it will be interesting to see how he develops. Only time will tell if Newcastle massively missed out.
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