Florian Lejeune posts message ahead of Newcastle United return

Florian Lejeune has said his goodbyes at loan club Alaves – before he returns to Newcastle United facing an uncertain future.

By Miles Starforth

Published 27th May 2021, 06:00 BST

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Lejeune, under contract at St James’s Park for another year, posted a message on Instagram after the La Liga club stayed up.

"It’s been a long, hard season with the goal of keeping the team up, and we made it,” said the 30-year-old. “It’s been a pleasure to be part of this great club. Thank you to all my team-mates, the staff and the fans for way you have treated me. Thank you.”

With United head coach Steve Bruce set to have a limited transfer budget this summer due to the financial impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the club’s finances, Lejeune could be sold as part of a summer rebuild.

The Paris-born defender joined Newcastle from Eibar in the summer of 2017 during Rafa Benitez’s time as manager.

Florian Lejeune Alaves St James's Park Steve Bruce