Former Newcastle United target sees Premier League transfer brutally collapse after flying to England

Jens Cajuste, an international teammate of Alexander Isak and Emil Krafth, was strongly linked with the Magpies in the summer of 2021 - a transfer window that proved to be Mike Ashley’s last as owner.

Newcastle forked out £25million to sign Joe Willock permanently from Arsenal but with additional funds tight, United were unable to act on their interest in Cajuste.

"It has been an interesting summer for me with a lot of rumours and talks,” Cajuste said at the time. “It is no big news that I feel ready for a new step.

"The amounts are completely crazy, but at the same time nice to know that you are valued so highly. I take that as motivation to work even harder.

“I’m trying not to think about it but it’s impossible not to do so. You keep track of the days and count down the hours. At the same time, I try to stay focused.

“There is almost nothing bigger than the Premier League, it would be really nice to take on that challenge. Like so many others, playing there has been a childhood dream.”

A few months later, the Magpies were taken over by the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia-led consortium, leading to suggestions a move for Cajuste could be re-visited in the January.

However, the midfielder went on to join French club Stade de Reims. Newcastle too went in a different direction, signing the likes of Kieran Trippier, Chris Wood, Bruno Guimaraes, Matt Targett and Dan Burn as they successfully retained their Premier League status.

The Swede spent 18 months in France before securing a transfer to Italian giants Napoli last summer. One year later and Cajuste had looked to set fulfil his Premier League dream with Brentford - but that is now unlikely to happen.

The 25-year-old had been expected to sign on a season-long loan deal with a £10m obligation to buy after flying to London. However, as per widespread reports, a deal has stalled with Cajuste due to fly back to Italy today.

Thomas Frank’s side announced the arrival of Fabio Carvalho in a £27.5m transfer from Liverpool on Monday night.