Noel Whelan

Mon 4 May 2020 13:19, UK

Noel Whelan has claimed Matty Longstaff will be “very, very wary” about signing a new contract at Newcastle United with a takeover in the offing. 

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider correspondent Dylan Childs, former Leeds United and Coventry forward suggested the uncertainty over Steve Bruce’s future will make the 20-year-old reluctant to agree to a new deal.

Longstaff is out of contract at the end of June and Newcastle would only receive a compensation fee for training costs if he moves clubs when he becomes a free agent.

As revealed by Football Insider, club officials have been in negotiations with the youngster during lockdown but a breakthrough is yet to be made.

The £300million takeover, which is in the process of being ratified, will have likely complicated the matter.

The prospective new owners hoping to replace Steve Bruce with a “world-beater” manager – Mauricio Pochettino their preferred choice.

When asked by Football Insider how the latest developments at St. James’ will have affected contract talks, Whelan said: “It is a big one for the player to think about now.

“He has had bits and pieces here and there but if Steve Bruce is only there until the end of the season, where does that leave players?

“I would be very, very wary about signing a new contract because they will be looking for certain players to step in. Players that have more experience and that are bigger names in the game.

“The Longstaffs are still creating their name in a squad that has not been that competitive. It is a big decision to make because it could also improve them playing alongside better players and having that increased competition.”

The central midfielder has scored twice in his seven first-team appearances this season.

Brother Sean Longstaff has also been in contract talks but with two years left on his deal, it is a less pressing concern.

In other Newcastle United news, Danny Mills reacts as Demba Ba tips Magpies for title challenge.