The Independent has recently reported that Newcastle United midfielder Sean Longstaff is likely to join Everton in January. It is understood that the Toffees are hoping to add reinforcements this winter and could move in for the Magpies midfield ace when the transfer window commences at the start of next year.
Longstaff’s Solid Form At St. James’ Park This Season
Longstaff has made a strong start to this campaign but has struggled to help his team find consistency in terms of getting positive results in the Premier League. The 23-year-old has been involved in eight matches for the Magpies this term, finding the back of the net once in the process across all competitions.
The Newcastle-born sensation has done well to average 3.0 tackles, 0.6 interceptions, 1.3 clearances, 1.3 shots and 0.6 key passes per 90 minutes in the English first division. He has even been tidy when distributing the ball from midfield after making 82.2% of his attempted passes in the top tier of English football (stats via whoscored).
Longstaff’s current contract at the Tyneside outfit is set to expire at the end of this campaign. Hence, Newcastle boss Steve Bruce would have no choice but to cash in on him for a cut-price fee in January or else risk losing him for free next summer unless the Magpies can tie him down to a new contract.
Should The Magpies Let Longstaff Leave In January?
Longstaff is a tough-tackling central midfielder who can hamper the opposition’s rhythm in the game at the centre of the park. He can also protect his backline by clearing the danger when needed. The English midfield ace is a neat passer of the ball and can create some decent openings for others around him.
The Newcastle United academy graduate deserves credit for establishing himself as a valuable member of Steve Bruce’s match-day squad. Longstaff can even contribute by scoring the odd goal from midfield when he is playing with confidence on the pitch.
At 23, Longstaff is growing into a solid, holding midfielder. Hence, Bruce should try everything in his power to tie the English midfield ace down to a new contract as he is currently one of the first names in his teamsheet.
Longstaff knows Newcastle’s culture quite well as he has come through their youth system. Plus, he has also formed a good midfield partnership with Jonjo Shelvey over the past 12 months. Therefore, it is only logical for the Magpies to not let Longstaff leave during the winter transfer period even if it means he ends up leaving the club at the end of this campaign.
