As the transfer window draws to a close, Newcastle United are still on the hunt for a replacement for Jonjo Shelvey. Sky Sports’ Keith Downie has claimed that Sheffield United’s Sander Berge may not be the solution for the Magpies, due to financial fair play restrictions.
Speaking on Sky Sports News (8:45 AM), Downie said a deal for Berge will be difficult due to FFP.
Newcastle have been looking for a loan midfielder with the potential to make the move permanent, but Berge’s situation may make it difficult.
Indeed, Sheffield United are desperate for cash as they look to get out of their transfer embargo, and the fact that Newcastle aren’t offering an up-front fee makes a deal difficult.
The midfielder is wanted by Fulham, who have reportedly made a cash offer for the player, making Berge’s move to Newcastle less likely.
Berge a difficult deal
Downie shared what he knows about this player.
“Newcastle are now looking for a midfielder to come in and replace Jonjo Shelvey. Sander Berge is a player that was considered yesterday, but I think that deal is going to be difficult to do due to Financial Fair Play. Newcastle are looking for a loan midfielder with the potential to make that permanent, but Berge and Sheffield United have an offer on the table from Fulham which would be a permanent transfer, £20m plus add ons, so it looks like Fulham is his more likely destination at this time,” Downie said.
“It does leave Newcastle one body short in midfield, they have four midfielders for three positions so there could potentially be some late business here for Newcastle on deadline day.”
Work to do
The situation at Sheffield United has been well-publicised, with the club under a transfer embargo and in need of cash.
With Fulham’s offer for Berge, it is unlikely that Newcastle will be able to sign the player, leaving the Magpies in search of alternative solutions.
Newcastle need a player who they can sign on loan with a view to a permanent transfer, and that means they’re fishing in a shallow pond, largely looking at players who are surplus to requirements.
The transfer deadline day is always an exciting and hectic time, with clubs making last-minute moves to bolster their squads. Newcastle’s situation is no different, and the club may have to turn to other options in order to find a replacement for Shelvey.
While the Berge move may not happen, the Magpies are still likely to explore more options before the window closes.
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