Blackburn Rovers boss opens up on failed Christian Atsu move

Blackburn Rovers boss Tony Mowbray has revealed why his outfit failed to seal the transfer of Ghanaian winger Christian Atsu from Newcastle United in the winter transfer window.

According to Mowbray, Atsu opted against a move to Ewood Park despite Rovers willing to stretch their budget to meet his wage demands.

His rejection ended Rovers’ hopes of adding to their squad before the January 31 deadline.

The 28-year-old's contract with the Magpies is set to expire next year and Newcastle are reportedly keen to part ways with the former Chelsea ace who last appeared for the club in an FA Cup replay with Oxford in February.

Speaking of the failed move for Atsu, Mowbray said: "Ultimately we were going to spend a lot of money on a Premier League footballer who was surplus to requirements because of a signing his club had made."

"His wages were way out of our league, but yet that deal nearly happened, but that player didn’t want to leave his Premier League club.

"His family situation dictated that, and we were left frustrated.

"There was a deal that done, then it wasn’t done. Clubs came in once there was an awareness of his availability and it clouded his mind. Ultimately the clock ticked down."

Reports in the north-east suggest Newcastle United are open to offers for Atsu in the summer, but it is unlikely that Blackburn Rovers will reignite their interest.