Sean Longstaff should excite Everton fans amid January transfer speculation
By Mark Murphy
Recent reports have linked Newcastle United midfielder Sean Longstaff to Everton in January. In fact, these talks date back to last summer where interest from the Toffees was rumoured.
Longstaff’s contract runs out in June next year, so even if the English midfielder doesn’t come to Goodison Park in January, there’s certainly a possibility of him coming in for free this summer [Newcastle Chronicle].
For some Everton fans, this could be seen as a very underwhelming signing. He’s really struggled for the Magpies the last few seasons and under new manager Eddie Howe, he has not been given many minutes.
Adding to that, it appears that Longstaff is low in Howe’s pecking order. Jonjo Shelvey has been really impressive lately and is often partnered with Joe Willock. Also, Isaac Hayden tends to make frequent appearances off the bench. It suggests Longstaff is very much out of favour at Newcastle.
However, a new opportunity, with a new environment could be what Longstaff needs. Additionally, the peak of his performances for the Toon Army was when Rafa Benitez was at the helm. Benitez gave him his first chance in the senior team and featured a lot in the back end of the 2018/19 season.
Considering that his career seems in somewhat of a rut, who better to help revive his career than Benitez? The Spaniard clearly has a good relationship with Longstaff and knows how to get the best out of him.
In addition, it really says a lot that even with his dip in form the last few seasons, Benitez still has an interest in the midfielder. Conveying that he truly is confident that Longstaff could revive his old form from their time together on Tyneside.
Let’s not forget at one point, Manchester United were eyeing him up back in the summer of 2019 [Sky Sports]. The speculated fee that the Red Devils were willing to spend on Longstaff was quoted at around £50million [Telegraph].
Whilst it might not be a name that screams out as exciting for the Toffees. Everton signing Longstaff could be better than first thought. Clearly, Benitez rates him and believes he can help bring him back to his best.
With still potentially some tight restrictions on Financial Fair Play, signing the English midfielder could be on the cards. A fresh start with a familiar face in charge could be just what Sean Longstaff needs to get his career going again.
In other Everton news, Gary Neville has taken aim at the Blues on Sky Sports.
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