10 Players Who Turned Down Big Moves To Join Newcastle

8. Sol Campbell - Arsenal & Celtic

Of all the veteran players who came to Newcastle with their best days behind them - Ian Rush, Stuart Pearce, even John Barnes - Sol Campbell is probably the least memorable. Signed on a free in 2010 as the club had climbed back into the Premier League, the imposing former England man had been expected to sign an extended contract at Arsenal after impressing in a short-term spell at the club. During that time he was called on far more than expected as injuries wiped out both Thomas Vermaelen and William Gallas and left Wenger's options sparse, but that wasn't enough to tempt him into staying. He chose to leave in the summer of 2010 and had been in talks with Celtic over a possible two year deal that would have no doubt given him more game time in the Champions League and the opportunity to win more silverware in a league that would extend his playing days. But ultimately he decided to spend a 19th straight season in the Premier League, accepting Newcastle's offer of a one year contract and around £35,000 in wages. That was a smaller sum than some might have expected, but it still proved too much as Campbell was no more than experienced cover at the club and was released after an unimpressive time at St. James' Park.