Sources: Scottish clubs race to sign Newcastle United star Matt Ritchie
Clubs in Scotland and England are eyeing up a summer move for Newcastle United star Matt Ritchie, sources have told Football Insider.
Ritchie is thought of highly among the staff and players at St James’ Park but feels like his time at Newcastle is coming to an end.
The 33-year-old is out of contract in the summer after joining from Bournemouth back in 2016 but has fallen down the pecking order with the likes of Miguel Almiron and Allan Saint-Maximin finding form.
Football Insider has been told by sources that clubs in the English Championship and League One, as well as clubs north of the border, are keen on a deal for Ritchie in the summer when he will be available for free.
The midfielder signed an extension back in 2020 and is one of the higher earners at the club on £45,000-per-week.
Ritchie has made just five appearances for Eddie Howe’s side this season and has only played 22 minutes of Premier League football.
It is believed Newcastle are looking to strengthen in the midfield position in the summer which will make it even harder for Ritchie to get game time.
On 25 February, sources told Football Insider that the Magpies are interested in a deal for James Maddison in the summer which could set them back £60-70million.
Ritchie has made 128 appearances during his time at the club and has scored seven goals and provided 20 assists in those outings.
In other news, according to sources, Aston Villa work on signing Newcastle United star.