Player ‘nearly in tears’ after emotional Newcastle United transfer saga
Newcastle United eventually signed Yoane Wissa on deadline day but there was late drama in the transfer window.
Yoane Wissa reportedly came close to tears after almost blowing his dream Newcastle United move.
It is no secret how desperate the 29-year-old was to join the Magpies. Wissa drove from London to Tyneside through the night to ensure he could complete a morning medical on deadline day.
At the same time, Alexander Isak was heading to Liverpool to formalise his British record transfer. Both players attracted criticism from the media and supporters for their antics while trying to force through an exit.
Newcastle United hiccup
A bizarre situation almost resulted in Wissa having to stay at Brentford. The embarrassment would have been amplified as he had already carried out his media duties and official photoshoots ahead of the official announcement.
The Daily Mail report how Wissa completed his Newcastle move one minute before the Premier League deadline. Toon chiefs had already lodged a deal sheet to allow extra time to get the paperwork in order.
A late hiccup meant one document was left unsigned, with representatives at opposite ends of the country sent into panic. However, Wissa officially became a Newcastle player at 8.59pm - one minute before the cut-off.
The striker is said to have "celebrated like he won the Champions League” once the deal crossed the line. Just moments earlier, Wissa was close to tears as his Newcastle future hung in the balance.
Yoane Wissa’s first words
“I’m really happy to be here and to sign for one of the biggest clubs in the Premier League,” Wissa said after the move. “I’m very, very excited to put on the black and white shirt. I’ve got dreams, I’ve got faith, and now I will do my best to make it all happen. I can’t wait to get started.”
Eddie Howe on Yoane Wissa
"Yoane is a player who we have admired for some time and we're delighted to have him on board,” Eddie Howe added. "He brings proven Premier League quality, demonstrated not only by his goalscoring output but also the crucial work he does for the team.
"Yoane's style of play will excite our supporters and complement our style of play. He has pace, power and an excellent work rate. He immediately makes us stronger."