Earlier today, the Telegraph wrote an article involving Newcastle and Sean Longstaff, which will surely leave Everton and Steve Bruce feeling pleased.
It is said that the 24-year-old is still refusing to sign a new contract at Newcastle, with his current terms set to expire in June.
Longstaff is thought to want more regular first-team football, which he unfortunately hasn’t received so far under Eddie Howe.
What’s the story?
Well, you may be wondering why this rumour will please Everton and Bruce.
Firstly, the Toffees are said to be interested in the Geordie, who they supposedly would’ve already signed if Rafa Benitez had stayed at Goodison Park.
In terms of Bruce, the 61-year-old apparently wants Longstaff at West Brom, as he aims to mount a promotion challenge with the Baggies next term.
Therefore, the fact Newcastle’s No.36 is still refusing a new contract, just weeks until his current terms expire, is good news for the Toffees, as well as Bruce.
Newcastle must keep Sean Longstaff
In our view, Eddie Howe must make an attempt to keep Longstaff at St James’ Park.
Following the Saudi Arabian takeover, the Magpies are able to afford most players in Europe, and unfortunately, the best don’t tend to come from Tyneside.
Therefore, it’s possible that the Toon Army will never see another Geordie in the first-team under Amanda Staveley and Mehrdad Ghodoussi, when more players like Bruno Guimaraes arrive.
That may not be an issue to some, but we feel it’s important to keep players like Longstaff around, as they provide a connection to the fanbase.
Of course, if he doesn’t want to renew his deal, then there isn’t much Howe can do – he can’t exactly force him to sign the paperwork.
However, Newcastle should at least try to convince him, as it would be sad to see Longstaff depart St James’ Park.
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