Acuna was originally invited to spend a week on trial with Bobby Robson's men and he impressed enough for the club to enquire about how much his current club, Universidad de Chile, would want for his services.

The Magpies were originally quoted £700,000 for the player which they were happy to pay, but then his agent tried to double the price tag.

It then seemed as though the deal would fall through but United still managed to reach an agreement with his club to take him to Tyneside for £1million.

But then it seemed as though Manchester United would come in an steal him from under Robson's nose, but eventually the deal was agreed and Acuna received his work permit in October 2000.

Made his debut for the Magpies in a 1-0 defeat at West Ham United and has become an important first team player. Scored his first goal for the club two months later - the winner in a 2-1 win over Leeds United.