Newcastle United completed their first transfer window under their new owners and were able to strengthen the backline by bringing in three new defenders to St James’ Park.
After completing the deal for Kieran Trippier in the first week of January, the Magpies took Dan Burn and Matt Targett on deadline day. The centre-back returned to the club from Brighton & Hove Albion, while the latter arrived on loan from Aston Villa.
Prior to signing Targett, the Tyneside club had their sights set on a few other left-backs, including Sassuolo’s Rogério.
Last week, we relayed news from Italy that Eddie Howe’s side were ‘trying’ for the 24-year-old, and it was also explained the Serie A side were not ready to let the Brazilian leave without bringing in a replacement.
Sassuolo CEO Giovanni Carnevali has now confirmed Newcastle made an approach for the fullback.
“Newcastle called us some time ago, it’s true,” the Italian side’s chief told Rai Sport, relayed by TuttoMercatoWeb.
Sportitalia also managed to speak to Carnevali, where he explained why Rogério did not end up moving to Newcastle.
“There were no conditions. We give Rogerio a certain type of value and if the conditions aren’t there, it’s not possible,” he said, as quoted by Calciomercato.
