Allan Saint-Maximin has revealed he pleaded with Patrick Vieira to grant him a move to Newcastle United.
In an enlightening post-game Press conference, the 22-year-old winger claimed that the Magpies also made a move for him before last year's winter transfer window but the move was turned down.
The £16.5million man made his debut in , and after the win he told the assembled media: "I feel good, I only came on Friday but to play one day later and win a game 2-1.
"I don't think you could ask too much more the week before a big game against Arsenal.
"In France you don't have 50,000 people turning out to watch you in games.
"It's not normal for me.
"I know I will see much more people against Arsenal.
"It is really good for the players."
Saint-Maximin was scouted extensively by Newcastle and after three bids in the last two weeks he eventually headed to the UK this week.
He added: "It was a difficult transfer.
"Newcastle came in December last year so it has been a long time for me.
"Nice did not want to let me go because they needed players.
"The trainer wanted me to stay.
"I told him I wanted to go to Newcastle.
"Newcastle came for me again so now it is my dream to be in the Premier League.
"It is a very good club."
United have endured a tough summer but Saint-Maximin's arrival sets up the prospect of a potentially lethal front three of the ex-Monaco man, Miguel Almiron and Joelinton.
When asked about such a possibility, the winger said: "It will be up to the head coach.
"Joelinton is a very good player and Miguel Almiron had a lot of opportunities to score.
"For me, I passed well to Muto and had an opportunity myself to score.
"When I feel my way into things I'll feel better and to shoot and score.
"I'll not be worried about where my team-mates are."
