Championship promotion hopefuls West Bromwich Albion and Aston Villa have both been linked with Newcastle United midfielder Isaac Hayden.
Isaac Hayden has made it clear that he wants to leave Newcastle United this month.
As reported by the Northern Echo, the midfielder handed in a transfer request in the summer and has now reiterated his desire to bid farewell to the North East with three weeks remaining in the January transfer window.
Hayden, who moved to Newcastle from Arsenal in 2016, wants to move down south to be closer to his partner and young daughter. But would the 23-year-old consider a move to West Bromwich, located three hours away from his home town of Chelmsford?
According to the Northern Echo, he would.
It is understood that West Brom have made contact with Newcastle about a potential deal for the combative midfielder and Hayden is open to the idea of swapping St James’ for The Hawthorns, although the report suggests that the Baggies would not be his first choice.
Relegation threatened Newcastle, however, are in no position to let players go for sentimental reasons and the Echo points out that Rafa Benitez will not allow Hayden to leave until he has signed a replacement.
The Mirror claimed that Aston Villa are also interested in the former Hull City loanee and you can imagine that Hayden would consider a move to Birmingham if he is open to joining West Brom.
Dean Smith is eyeing a number of signings to build Aston Villa in his own image and Hayden could provide the energy and steel in midfield that allows the club’s gifted attacking talents to thrive.
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