In the 'real world' you don't sign a crocked player, pay ridiculous wages for six months knowing full well you will get no return.
So is it any surprise the penny has dropped and Newcastle's 'delegation' have arrived back on Tyneside saying they will return to Barcelona in January?
Toon Back Away From Brazilian
United are still expected to clinch the signing of Edmilson - but will have to wait until the January transfer window for him to pull on a black and white shirt.
Doubts over the South American's fitness and wage demands have confirmed he will not spend six months in a sick-bed in Geordieland.