Sean Longstaff to be let go by Newcastle United with ‘big’ signing on the way – Agbonlahor
Gabby Agbonlahor has claimed Sean Longstaff is not the “long-term” answer for Newcastle United as a midfield partner for Bruno Guimaraes.
The former Aston Villa striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted the Magpies need two big-name additions if they are to continually challenge for a Champions League place in the years to come.
Longstaff has started 21 of a possible 25 Premier League games for Newcastle this season as they mount their first attack on the elite English sides.
The Magpies have been transformed from a relegation-threatened side since signing star man Guimaraes for a reported £40million in 2021.
Eddie Howe’s side faltered when the Brazil international was missing through a red card suspension last month, picking up just two of a possible nine points in his absence.
Football Insider revealed on 9 March that Newcastle are ready to battle Premier League rivals for Southampton captain James Ward-Prowse this summer.
Agbonlahor told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “Newcastle need another big midfielder in there.
“Longstaff has done so well but he’s not the answer long-term if Newcastle want to get where they want to go.
“We’ve seen that when Guimaraes was suspended. They struggled.
“They’ve done really well with their recruitment so far, so I’m sure they’ve got their targets.
“They need that next midfielder in there, maybe even two. You’ve got to have competition for places if you want to be a Champions League club.”
Newcastle sit fifth in the Premier League with 13 games remaining of this season.
They are four points behind fourth-place Tottenham with two games in hand on the Lilywhites.
In other news, Newcastle have agreed new £8m deal.