£40m player reportedly rejected Newcastle because he was scared of relegation, now he’s way below them

Sat 12 March 2022 6:15, UK

Tottenham Hotspur v Everton - Premier League — Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images

Newcastle United are on a roll in the Premier League at the moment but the Toon’s January transfer target Donny van de Beek can’t quite say the same.

Eddie Howe’s side were linked with plenty of players in the winter window. Many rumours even led us to believe that a few top names in world football would make the move to St James’ Park, but that didn’t quite happen.

The Magpies signed Chris Wood, Dan Burn, Matt Targett, Kieran Trippier and Bruno Guimaraes in the end. All of those players have had a positive impact already and Newcastle fans are beyond delighted.

Many felt at the time that van de Beek would’ve been a great signing, but it doesn’t look like Newcastle need him.

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Donny van de Beek rejected Newcastle in January

The Dutchman was one of the best players in his country during his time at Ajax. He was absolutely brilliant for them and it was no surprise to see Manchester United splash £40 million () for his signature in 2020.

However, van de Beek barely played for the Red Devils. In his 18 months at Old Trafford, he was given a little over 1800 minutes of game times, which is shocking when you consider how talented he is.

Van de Beek had to do something in the winter window and he decided to go out on loan. Newcastle were very keen to sign him, but revealed that the Dutchman rejected Howe’s side because he didn’t fancy being involved in a relegation battle.

The 24-year-old joined Everton on loan instead and we wonder what he’ll be thinking about his decision now.

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The Dutchman must be regretting his decision

Since van de Beek joined Everton in January, the Toffees have won just one of their five league games. Newcastle, on the other hand, are unbeaten and have picked up four wins out of five in the same period.

Howe’s men have climbed up to 14th in the table as well and the threat of relegation, something van de Beek was really worried about, looks smaller than it has ever been this season.

Everton, however, are up against it. Frank Lampard’s side are currently 17th, just a point ahead of Burnley. Their recent form has been woeful and considering they still have Manchester United, Liverpool, Chelsea, Leicester and Arsenal left to play, there’s a good chance they could go down.

Van de Beek was desperate to avoid a relegation battle in January but he has found himself in one now. The Dutchman must surely be kicking himself.