Everton and Newcastle United are reportedly set to battle over Bristol City ace Joe Bryan.
According to The Mirror, Everton and Newcastle United are both interested in snapping up Bristol City left back Joe Bryan in a £7million swoop this month.
Bryan, 24, was born in Bristol and has come up through the ranks with the Robins, and has become a key player at Ashton Gate in recent years.
The left back, who can also play at left wing back or on the left of midfield, has now racked up more than 200 appearances for Bristol City, and his performances under Lee Johnson are now attracting interest.
The Mirror report that Premier League duo Everton and Newcastle United are both interested in landing Bryan this month, with both teams desperate for a left back.
It’s noted that Brighton and Hove Albion are also keen, and the Robins could charge around £7million for Bryan in order to sell him before the end of the month.
Everton have seen Leighton Baines struggle with injuries this season, and it may now be time for Sam Allardyce to find a successor for the 32-year-old, with the attack-minded Bryan fitting the bill.
Meanwhile, Newcastle have long been searching for another option at left back given Paul Dummett’s lengthy absence earlier this season, with the likes of Javier Manquillo and Chancel Mbemba used at left back this term.
Bryan – who scored against Manchester United in Bristol City’s famous Carabao Cup win last month – would be a smart addition for the Magpies, and with Mike Ashley prepared to back Rafael Benitez with money for new signings this month, Bryan could be a top target, but Newcastle may well have to battle Everton for his signature.
Rafael Benitez and Sam Allardyce
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