‘Newcastle make transfer decision on star duo, funds needed for major deal’
Newcastle United have made a significant transfer decision on two key players as they step up their pursuit of a major deal.
Manager Eddie Howe wants to bring money into the club to fund a major signing to strengthen his squad.
Newcastle were forced to sell Elliot Anderson and Yankuba Minteh last summer otherwise they would have breached profit and sustainability rules [PSR].
The Toon enjoyed a successful 2024/25 season with a first major trophy won for 70 years and a return to the Champions League, which has boosted their transfer kitty.
Midfield duo could depart for Trafford purchase
As reported by The Guardian, Newcastle are willing to listen to offers for midfielders Sean Longstaff and Joe Willock.
The report states that Longstaff has interest from both Everton and newly promoted Leeds United.
However it’s suggested that the Magpies would only sanction the sale of either Longstaff or Willock – not both.
Sandro Tonali, Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton have become Eddie Howe’s first choice midfield, so playing time has become limited for both Longstaff and Willock.
With the club reluctant to let striker Alexander Isak leave, Howe needs to generate funds from another source this summer.
The Toon are also prepared to offer the Swedish international a new contract to convince him to stay at St James’ Park
The Magpies remain keen on Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford, but the Clarets value the 22-year-old at around £40million.
Howe is also in the market for a defender with Atalanta’s Girogio Scalvini linked to Tyneside and Anthony Elanga is also a target.
Howe must sell before spending
Football Insider verdict
Newcastle have not been willing to listen to offers for Isak so far this summer and that stance doesn’t look set to change unless the club receives their valuation of around £150m.
If Howe wants to sign Elanga then the Nottingham Forest winger would set him back around £60m, and he wants a new centre-back which won’t come cheap.
Therefore, players like Longstaff and Willock, who are not guaranteed starters, but who can generate considerable funds are on the club’s transfer list.
Both have proven Premier League experience and both could be assets for most clubs in the division.
Longstaff has made 171 appearances whilst Willock has made 159 in the Premier League.
| Player | Longstaff | Willock |
| Appearances | 171 | 159 |
| Goals | 10 | 15 |
| Assists | 9 | 9 |
Howe may want a quick sale after Burnley signed goalkeeper Max Weiss, meaning the Clarets have already found their replacement for Trafford.
That means the former Manchester City goalkeeper is immediately available and could link up with the squad for when their pre-season begins.