Newcastle United forward Yoshinori Muto: 'I once rejected Chelsea move'

Newcastle United forward Yoshinori Muto has revealed that he once rejected a transfer to Chelsea.

Muto has made the switch to St James' Park this summer, but the Japan international has suggested that his career could have taken a different path after interest from the Blues.

However, the 26-year-old has claimed that he was not keen on a move to Stamford Bridge due to the fear of being immediately sent out on loan.

Muto told The Telegraph: "I was 22 when I got the offer from Chelsea. At the time, I didn't feel the manager of the club really wanted or needed me.

"I think they wanted to sign the young potential of players and then loan them out to help them progress. Instead of doing that, I wanted to stay at a club to help me progress.

"I wanted to feel like I could make my own progress step by step, therefore I didn't take that opportunity."

Newcastle play host to Chelsea in the Premier League on Sunday afternoon.