Everton have to fork out £10 million in order to secure the services of their latest target Sean Longstaff, amid interest from Southampton.
The latest report from Daily Mail has shed some light on the future of Sean Longstaff. The Newcastle United midfielder is facing an uncertain future at the club, with his current deal expiring at the end of the season. It has put Everton on alert, although they are set to face stiff competition from Southampton.
Amid all the speculation, Newcastle United have now slapped a £10 million price tag on the 23-year-old midfielder. The club also actively trying to sign a new midfielder to compensate despite having already brought in Joe Willock from Arsenal earlier this month.
Born in Newcastle, Longstaff initially rose to prominence during the backend of the 2018/19 campaign, becoming a key component in the club’s midfield. Unfortunately, his progress has since stalled, with the youngster often struggling to maintain a consistent level of fitness and performance.
Rafael Benitez, though, is now ready to bring him to Goodison Park in an attempt to revive his career and solve Everton’s midfield problem. While Longstaff has played the majority of his career under the leadership of Steve Bruce, he made his initial breakthrough under Benitez, with the midfield even enjoying massive success.
With less than a year left on his contract, Longstaff could, therefore, fashion the idea of reuniting with his former boss. His calming influence in the middle of the park could be useful for an Everton team that lacks a viable alternative and a competitor for Allan.
Earlier this month, the Toffees were linked with a move for a similar player in Harry Winks of Tottenham Hotspur. However, Longstaff’s £10 million price tag makes him a far more affordable alternative.
The English youngster also boasting a significant amount of experience at the highest level of football, with 70 competitive appearances for Newcastle United. Benitez himself knows the 23-year-old well and should play a vital role in helping him settle in quickly at Goodison Park.
However, Everton need to be wary of the interest from Southampton, who are also in the market for a new midfielder. The Saints, though, are interestingly eyeing a move for one of Everton’s own assets in Thierry Small. The young left-back is among the most highly-rated in the country and faces an uncertain future at the club, giving them an excellent opportunity to snap him up this summer.
