Newcastle in race to sign Bristol City’s Brownhill, could use Colback sweetener

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Newcastle are one of a number of sides reportedly tracking Bristol City midfielder Josh Brownhill.

Newcastle United are reportedly one of six sides tracking Bristol City midfielder Josh Brownhill as the Robins starlet looks set to enter the final months of his current contract.

TeamTalk claim Lee Johnson’s side have the right to trigger an extension in the 21-year-old’s current deal, but they are keen to extend his contract even further than that in order to deter interest from Premier League and Championship sides.

Newcastle are one of four top-flight clubs said to be keen, along with Leicester City, Burnley and Bournemouth, while Championship clubs Leeds United and Derby County are also said to be monitoring his situation.

Brownhill has broken onto the scene with his excellent form in the middle of the park for the Robins, scoring three goals and adding two assists in 22 league and cup appearances for City.

He has shone in the English Football League during his short career, already making a huge 144 appearances for Bristol City, Preston North End and Barnsley.

Rafa Benitez is likely to be busy in the January transfer window and a central midfielder should be high on his wishlist, with injuries to Mikel Merino and Isaac Hayden highlighting the need for more depth.

Mo Diame’s form is a cause for concern, while Henri Saivet and Jack Colback have been ostracised by Benitez. If they are to beat their rivals to the signature of Brownhill, surely it would make sense to throw 28-year-old Colback into the deal.

The former Sunderland ace will be desperate to leave St. James’ Park in the summer after being left out of the 25-man Premier League squad by Benitez, and boasts the kind of Championship experience Robins boss Johnson will need.

City remain in the race for promotion in third place, and Colback’s 79 appearances in England’s second tier, as well as his promotion knowledge with Newcastle last season would see him become a crucial asset to their top-flight push.

The only stumbling block for City will be Colback’s wages, with the Daily Star claiming he is earning £35,000 a week. But an agreement would surely be met if both sides sit down at the negotiating table, with a swap deal benefiting both sides.