Everton bid for Sean Longstaff rejected by Newcastle
Everton have had a bid rejected for Newcastle United midfielder Sean Longstaff, according to The Shields Gazette‘s Miles Starforth.
The Toffees have already completed two signings this month, bringing in Vitaly Mykolenko from Dinamo Kyiv and Nathan Patterson from Rangers in defence.
They have now switched their attention to boosting the midfield, with interest in Newcastle midfielder Longstaff coming to light.
After Sky Sports reported their interest in the ‘fantastic‘ 24-year-old midfielder on Wednesday night, the Shields Gazette have now reported that a bid for the midfielder has been rejected and the club are hopeful of signing the player to a new contract.
His current deal expires at the end of the current season and he is free to speak with foreign clubs about a free transfer if he wants to.
Blow
Everton are clearly interested in Longstaff coming into the club so seeing a bid rejected for the player despite his contract situation is a blow.
Rafa Benitez has worked with the player in the past during his time in charge at St James’ Park and is keen on a reunion, with his defensive capabilities highly rated and needed at Goodison Park.
Longstaff would represent a cut-price deal due to his contract status, which would help Everton to stretch their budget over the winter window and potentially sign even more targets.
News that Newcastle want to sign the midfielder to a new contract is likely to be a blow to their bid too, since Longstaff has come through the academy at the club and is a lifelong fan of the Magpies.
It will take some convincing for him to make the move and reject his current club’s offer of a new deal, especially with the financial backing they have received and the likely progression they will make in coming years.
In other Everton news, Sky Sports journalist provides update on ‘world-class’ playmaker to Everton.