Newcastle United’s transfer hopes have been dealt another blow as one of their summer targets is unlikely to want to sign for the club.
There has been a lot of hope put on this summer transfer window to help solve all of the issues that Newcastle suffered during the season, though it’s not clear if the finances are there.
However, a report from Football Transfers is now claiming that one of those who they had identified as a possible defensive target won’t want to play at St James’ Park next season.
Newcastle to miss out on £60m centre-back
With the news that Sven Botman is set to miss up to nine months of action, and even when he returns will have to be eased in, Newcastle are on high alert to find a new centre-back option for next season.
They had previously identified Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite as a potential option who already has a longstanding relationship with Anthony Gordon from their time on Merseyside and now in the England team.
However, it now looks like Man United are leading the race to sign the 20-year-old who has really enjoyed a breakthrough season in the Premier League this year under Sean Dyche.
Real Madrid are also monitoring the situation of the Carlisle-born defender, making life even harder for Newcastle who are not exactly top of Branthwaite’s list of priorities.
Branthwaite could have been perfect for Eddie Howe
If there’s one thing Eddie Howe loves it’s a young, English talent with plenty to prove and keen to get a chance to perform at the highest level in Europe.
While Newcastle won’t be competing in the Champions League next season, that is their ultimate goal to return to the competition and it’s not completely ridiculous to suggest they could do it again.
His price tag of around £60m could have been an issue for the Geordies who are very limited in what they can spend, but given his potential it could have turned out to be a bargain deal in the long-term.
Now, they will have to look elsewhere for defensive options with Gleison Bremer and Giorgio Scalvini both being suggested as possible targets this summer.
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