10 Players Newcastle Were Mad To Let Go

8. Nolberto Solano - Sold To Aston Villa For £1.5 Million (2004)

Newcastle United Appearances (1998-2004): 233 Newcastle United Goals (1998-2004): 38 International Appearances for Peru (Goals): 95 (20) Clubs (Since Leaving NUFC): Aston Villa (2004-05), Newcastle United (2005-07), West Ham United (2007-08), Larissa (2008), Universitario de Deportes (2009), Leicester City (2010), Hull City (2010-11), Hartlepool United (2011-12) Career Appearances (Since Leaving NUFC): 192 Career Goals (Since Leaving NUFC): 16

Nolberto Solano was sold by Newcastle twice, but it is the first time he was allowed to leave the club that proved the most damaging Still just 29 and in his prime, Solano was sold to Aston Villa for a mere £1.5 million in January 2004, despite having scored 38 goals and contributed countless assists during his six years on Tyneside. The 95-cap Peruvian international could provide a beautiful delivery from a dead ball, a delicious cross and also had a sublime finishing technique. Yet, despite the fact he assisted so many of Alan Shearer's goals, Solano was allowed to leave due to a "strained relationship" with Sir Bobby Robson. Shearer's desire to see Solano return to the club helped facilitate his return just 18 month later for the same price for which he was sold. Another 10 goals arrived in 18 further appearances for the Magpies before Solano departed for a second time, on this occasion to West Ham United, but with his powers having waned by this stage. The Magpies had missed out on 18 months of Solano's prime though - and all for the sake of £1.5 million.