In a recent print edition, The Sunday Mirror claimed that Newcastle United midfielder Sean Longstaff is on the radar of Leeds United. It has been mentioned that the Whites are showing interest in recruiting the English midfield ace from the Magpies this summer.
Longstaff’s Impressive Form In The Premier League
Longstaff is enjoying a solid campaign at the Tyneside club after he put in a series of impressive performances for them in the middle of the park. The English talent has featured in 36 matches for the Magpies this season, netting six goals and securing two assists across multiple competitions.
The 26-year-old has been a good performer at both ends of the field and deserves credit for averaging 1.5 tackles, 0.6 clearances, 1.0 shots and 0.6 key passes per 90 minutes in the Premier League. He has even distributed the ball relatively well from midfield after making 81.9% of his attempted passes in the English first division (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at St. James’ Park is set to expire at the end of next season. Therefore, Newcastle would have to cash in on him this summer or else risk losing him as a free agent next year.
Should Newcastle United Boss Eddie Howe Cash In On Longstaff?
Longstaff loves a tackle and can make life difficult for the opposition in the middle of the park. He usually clears the danger when the opposition are on the offensive and can strike the ball with venom from long range.
The English sensation can even create some meaningful openings for his teammates in the opponent’s half. He is primarily a box-to-box midfielder but can also operate as a defensive midfielder or as an attacking midfielder if needed.
Longstaff remains an important member of Newcastle‘s match-day squad. However, frequent injuries have often hampered his progress at St. James’ Park.
At 26, Longstaff has his peak years ahead of him. However, the English midfield ace will have just a year left in his Newcastle contract at the end of this campaign. Thus, Eddie Howe should consider cashing in on him and use the money generated from his potential sale to bring in a suitable replacement when the transfer window reopens later this year.