Newcastle United’s chaotic summer transfer window looks set to continue with further departures from St James’ Park expected before the start of the new season.
The Magpies have been one of the more active Premier League sides since the transfer window opened on 14th June.
Their activity thus far has been largely to comply with Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), with Yankuba Minteh and Elliot Anderson departing the club.
Newcastle have worked hard to keep hold of their star players so far this summer, with Bruno Guimaraes’ release clause expiring on 30th June. Anthony Gordon and Alexander Isak have also been linked with moves away from St James’ Park during the early weeks of the transfer window, but all three have stayed at this stage.
Further departures from St James’ Park are expected this summer
Several players are entering the last year of their respective contracts, which leaves Newcastle open to selling them this summer instead of losing them for free in a year.
Callum Wilson, Kieran Trippier and ‘unsung hero’, Sean Longstaff are all in the final 12 months of their contracts, with all three being key to Newcastle’s success under Eddie Howe so far.
And The Athletic are reporting that Newcastle are open to losing Longstaff, who has been a dependable player for Howe.
The academy graduate provides the club with pure profit concerning PSR, making him an attractive selling option. Longstaff made 46 appearances for the club in all competitions last season and often played through the pain barrier after suffering an ankle injury halfway through the campaign, showing his commitment to the cause.
Longstaff departure could harm Newcastle
Despite Longstaff’s potential departure being viewed as attractive financially, it could have a detrimental impact on how the team.
Howe has often praised the midfielder for his athleticism and for doing the dirty work for the team. Longstaff regularly goes under the radar but allows the Newcastle side to tick by recycling the ball effectively and allowing the likes of Gordon, Guimaraes and Isak to shine.
Longstaff added more goals to his game last season, scoring eight in all competitions compared to three during the 22/23 campaign. His late runs into the box became a real outlet for Newcastle last season and added a balance to the side that often went unnoticed.
Losing Longstaff may not be viewed negatively by some supporters, but his importance to Newcastle may only be realised should he depart.
The post Report: Newcastle United are open to selling Eddie Howe's 'unsung hero' this summer appeared first on Geordie Boot Boys.