Sean Longstaff is holding out on signing a new, long-term contract with Newcastle United as he seeks assurances on what game time will be available should he snub a free transfer.
That’s according to Chronicle Live, who note the Toon have tabled a new deal to keep the midfielder on Tyneside. But Longstaff is yet to commit his future to the Magpies, ahead of his existing deal ending at the end of the season after over a decade at the North East side.
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Longstaff joined the United academy fold as a youth, but has only played a bit-part role so far this season. The 24-year-old has amassed 21 Premier League appearances, but has only started 12 games. Additionally, just three of his starts have come in eight outings in 2022.
Newcastle are eager to secure Longstaff’s services before he hits the transfer market as a free agent from June. A deal is on the table for the North Shields-born technician to stay at St James’ Park. But a pen is yet to hit paper as he waits to learn Eddie Howe’s plan for him.
Talks between the Saudi-led United hierarchy and his representatives have been underway since March, per The Times. Howe and senior Newcastle figures are keen to agree on fresh terms, after the previous St James’ leadership structure failed to negotiate a new contract.
Longstaff currently earns up to £25k-a-week as one of the worst-paid first-team players at Newcastle on terms agreed in 2018. He should land a substantial pay rise with a new deal, which The Times also report would be a four-year contract after progress in recent talks.
Sean Longstaff holding out for game time assurances in Newcastle contract talks
Assurances on his playing time next season is likely one of the last hurdles Newcastle must overcome to get Longstaff to sign a new contract, with Howe and senior figures pushing to reach an agreement. The Times add the Toon have told him he is a key part of their plans.
Yet words can only do so much, and Longstaff may want to see more concrete action from Howe. The Magpies boss hailed the midfielder following his stand-in performance against Chelsea in March. Yet he has only started one of three outings from seven possible since.
“After not playing for a period of time, I thought he was excellent,” he said, via Chronicle Live. “It’s testament to how he’s looked after himself, physically, that he was able to play the 90-minutes.”
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