Defoe has started just three Barclays Premier League matches this term, and Alan Pardew would have given him far more opportunities than he has had at White Hart Lane in the last year.
And it was last January when he snubbed United's offer.
Tottenham manager Tim Sherwood: "I think we have to give a bit more credit to the MLS. I don't think it's a c*** league.
"I think it's OK. Jermain needs to play regularly and he sees that as the place where he will get it.
"I am sure playing in the MLS won't hinder him from being in the England squad. Wherever he plays he will score goals.
"Jermain is one of the best strikers this league has ever seen and he is a fantastic professional.
"When he doesn't start he is always ready to come on and when he does come on he wants to change the game and show that he is good enough."
Personally I don't think he would have settled on Tyneside. He's a wide-boy and London is far removed from life at Newcastle.
But I do think he would have become a popular figure with the fans.
At the end of the day ... we will never know.