Everton boss Rafa Benitez keen on Newcastle midfielder Sean Longstaff
Rafa Benitez is reportedly monitoring the availability of Newcastle midfielder Sean Longstaff, amid chances of a switch to Everton.
According to iNews, the Spaniard is keen on a reunion with the player he gave a debut at Newcastle.
The 24-year-old’s deal at St James’ Park expires at the end of the season which means he can sign a pre-contract agreement with an overseas club in January.
He has held talks over an extension with Newcastle, but the Englishman is understood to be keeping his options open.
Good move?
Longstaff is a player who burst onto the scene a few years ago and everyone believed he was the next big thing.
In 2019, his ex-coach Gary Bowyer labelled him “fantastic”. [Guardian]
However, that buzz surrounding him and fizzled out and he’s no longer that valuable to a side that’s rooted to the foot of the Premier League table.
Even in the Premier League this season, he’s made just eight starts, with the last one being two months ago in October.
If he’s not able to force his way into that team, there’s little reason to believe how he could strengthen this Everton side.
Also, midfield is not where the Toffees need to improve as there are problems at full-back as well as in attack.
In fact, Allan and Abdoulaye Doucoure are set to be the preferred options even if Longstaff signs so the club should look at players in other positions.
In other Everton news, a super-rich club wants to sign a ‘Phenomenal’ Toffees ace & have been monitoring him for a while
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