When Rafael Benitez arrived at the helm at Everton, a host of players previously coached by the Spaniard were linked to the club. Newcastle United midfielder Sean Longstaff was one of the more prominent ones. The midfielder was considered a strong target due to the relationship Benitez had with him at Newcastle.
Even more so, the 24 year old’s contract is expiring in June 2022 and hence Everton wanted to make a smart addition to the side. The player was mooted to leave the Magpies and join Everton but in the end Longstaff ended up staying at St James’ Park in the summer.
Newcastle United ownership changed hands from Mike Ashley to a consortium consisting of the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia, Reuben Brothers and PCP Capital Partners. The £300 million club sale meant that Newcastle have now gone from stringent owners to owners who are willing to splash the cash in order to take the club to newer heights.
The Newcastle hierarchy wants to drastically improve the squad quality and are said to be in contact with several football agents over the prospect of signing new players. The chiefs at the club are already making calculations regarding the ins and outs and one potential exit to look at could be of Longstaff.
Sean Longstaff on Everton radar
Eddie Howe took over as the Newcastle United manager in early November and in two games played under Howe’s tutelage, Longstaff has just played 19 minutes. The 24 year old was one of the most used midfielders under Steve Bruce but as of now, Howe prefers Jonjo Shelvey and Joe Willock in the midfield.
Longstaff has reportedly been open to new deal and Newcastle United intend to continue the contract discussions with the 24 year old but there is interest from Everton and other European sides, as per The Chronicle.
With Everton still keen on the player, there are chances that attempts could be made in January. Given that his deal runs out next summer, he could be available for a bargain price as this will be Newcastle’s last opportunity to cash in on him. No longer are the Magpies cash strapped but player sales could help create room for newer additions.
Back in the summer, Longstaff had a price tag of £10 million but no deal materialized. Expect his price to drop in January and for a player whose market worth is £13.5 million (as per Transfermarkt), it could be another steal for Everton after executing smart business in the case of Demarai Gray and Andros Townsend.
Rafa Benitez handed Longstaff his Newcastle debut and the youngster didn’t disappoint. Reuniting with the Spanish boss will be a big incentive and Longstaff could consider it, provided Benitez remains in charge of the club until the January transfer window. The Royal Blues will look for reinforcements in the January window and the midfielder could be a strong target.
Should Everton sign Sean Longstaff in January?