Theres a sense of anger on Tyneside following Newcastle Uniteds inactivity in the transfer window. Players such as Lyon striker Bafétimbi Gomis, Lilles Florian Thauvin, Norwich Citys Anthony Pilkington, Blackpools Thomas Ince and Wigans James McCarthy were all targeted, but none were successfully signed by manager Alan Pardew. A statistic that makes things worse is that Newcastle United were the only top-flight club not to make a permanent signing this summer. However, in spite of the lack of signings in recent times, Pardew has signed some quality players in the past three years. And here, we remind ourselves of his 10 Best Signings To Date.
10. Davide Santon - £5 Million From Inter Milan
The signing of Davide Santon was seen as something of a coup for Pardew back in 2011 when he was acquired for £5 million from Italian giants Inter Milan. The fullback had just won back-to-back Serie A titles under Jose Mourinho in 2008-09/2009-10 and, at the age of just 20, was clearly headed for great things. However, a succession of injuries hindered the defender's progress at the San Siro and, having made 40 appearances for the Italian giants, was eventually sold to the Magpies. Mourinho has since spoken of his regret at this decision and claims he could have gone on to become a star at Inter. But their loss is Newcastle's gain as Santon has gone on to establish himself in the North East club's rearguard and as one of Pardew's better signings.
Joseph is an accredited football journalist and has interviewed nearly all of the current 20 Barclay's Premier League managers. He is also a correspondent for Bleacher Report and has written for Caught Offside and Give Me Football.
