Newcastle United Defender Florian Lejeune Set to Join Deportivo Alaves

Florian Lejeune to Join Deportivo Alaves

Florian Lejeune Returns to Spain

Steve Bruce has confirmed that 30-year-old Newcastle United defender Florian Lejeune is set to return back to Spain after four seasons at St James’ Park. The former French U20 international joined Newcastle United in 2017 after an impressive spell with Eibar. Speculations were rife when Lejeune, who had started pre-season training with the Magpies, was omitted from Newcastle United’s squad to face York City.

He had an impressive debut season for the Magpies. But, an ACL injury during the 2018/19 pre-season saw him miss half of the campaign. The Frenchman returned to fitness in December, but another ACL injury derailed his Newcastle career. The defender was never the same after his multiple injuries.

The dismissal of Rafa Benitez did not do any favours for the defender. Steve Bruce, who took over from the Spaniard, rarely opted to play the Frenchman as his first-choice centre-back. Lejeune returned to Spain last season after Deportivo Alaves secured a season-long loan deal for the defender. The 30-year-old was an integral part of Alaves defence that escaped relegation from La Liga last season.

In four seasons as a Newcastle United player, Lejeune made 46 appearances and scored two goals. But untimely injuries and change in management eventually led to the Frenchman’s exit.

Andy Carroll Released

Florian Lejeune is not the only player leaving Tyneside this season. Steve Bruce has also confirmed the exit of Newcastle United academy product Andy Carroll during his press conference.

Andy Carroll returned to Newcastle United in 2019 on a free. The forward struggled to re-establish himself at Tyneside after his return. Since his return, the England international has struggled in front of goal and scored just once in 43 appearances for the Magpies.