Leeds were allegedly preparing themselves for Mike Ashley to up the £1.8m offer to £2m, but instead Chris Hughton went for his second choice ... the Republic of Ireland striker.
Best's contract was set to expire in the summer and talks over a new deal had stalled.
Best arrived at Newcastle's training ground on Monday morning where he agreed terms and completed a medical before penning a three-and-a-half year deal.
Ray Ranson: "The situation with Leon's contract has been well documented.
"When it was apparent that we couldn't agree terms for him to remain at Coventry City, we knew we would have to listen to offers and act in the best interests of the club."