It seems that Newcastle United and Southampton may have lost out in the race for Sporting defender Ruben Semedo.
The Magpies were said to have an agreement for the player last week, and even though reports from Monday claimed Southampton had taken the lead, things had a big turnaround last night.
Semedo’s agent Cátio Baldé was interviewed by Radio TSF on Tuesday and said: “We are about to confirm the transfer of Reuben Semedo. I confirm Spain. We are looking forward to close the deal today. We are working, yesterday was intense. We are absolutely sure that there will probably be a conclusion today.
“Ruben has been faced with several possibilities, the clubs are going to meet what Sporting wants. It was in Spain that we found the best solution. Until this moment I cannot confirm conclusively. He’s on the right track.” (via A Bola)
The club said to be beating Newcastle and Southampton is Villarreal. They are mentioned by O Jogo and Correio da Manhã this morning, with the latter confirming that a deal for the player was found with the Spanish side, who will pay €15m for him.
Semedo has a €45m release clause, and with so many clubs interested – French side Lille are also in – it’s a little strange see Sporting selling him so quickly, but they do have a pressing need for funds.
It looks like Newcastle and Southampton will have to look at other targets, but would anyone be shocked if everything has changed by tomorrow?
