Newcastle United have moved to keep midfielder Sean Longstaff.
Newcastle United may not have enjoyed great success with young players under Rafael Benitez, but they continue to look to build for the future.
The Magpies Under-23’s have been impressive under Ben Dawson, with the likes of Cal Roberts and Elias Sorensen really catching the eye this term.
Their leading star though is playmaker Sean Longstaff, who has notched one goal and four assists this season as he pushed for first-team football.
21-year-old Longstaff did make his first-team debut earlier this season but has dropped back down into the Under-23’s, with some expecting him to go out on loan.
Longstaff could have even moved on in January, as his Newcastle contract was due to expire at the end of the season, which had prompted interest.
The Chronicle noted in September that Celtic were particularly keen on Longstaff, especially as they could have landed him in a pre-contract agreement and paid bargain compensation for the midfielder.
However, Celtic’s hopes are officially over, as Newcastle have today confirmed that Longstaff has signed a new deal, tying his future to the club until 2022.
Celtic could of course still attempt a major cash bid for Longstaff in 2019, but it seems that his long-term future is now at St James’ Park – and he will be really pushing for first-team football this season.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
