Newcastle United forward Gary Brazil has joined Third Division Fulham on a month’s loan, with a view to a permanent deal.
Brazil was Jim Smith’s fourth signing as Newcastle manager in February 1988. Smith spent £200,000 on bringing Brazil to St. James’ Park from Preston North End with Ian Bogie going the other way as a makeweight in the deal. But the talented forward, who turns 28 this month, has struggled in the north east – making just 23 appearances for the Magpies and scoring three goals.
The Tunbridge Wells-born forward was on the bench for United’s opening-day victory over Plymouth Argyle, but hasn’t featured in the first-team this season. Brazil is expected to make his Fulham debut when the Whites travel to Shrewsbury Town. If he stays at Craven Cottage permanently, the deal could cost the Third Division strugglers as much as £150,000. That was the fee agreed with Notts County before the transfer window closed last season – but Brazil turned down the move.
