Frank McAvennie believes Everton should sign Sean Longstaff in January or the summer as a transfer would be much easier in current circumstances.
Newcastle United’s high profile takeover has been the talk of the town for the past week or so. The newfound wealth of their new owners means the Magpies are expected to splash heavily into recruiting quality players, leaving those currently playing in black & white in limbo.
Many current Newcastle players are facing uncertain futures at St. James’ Park, while some have contracts expiring at the end of the season. One such player is Sean Longstaff. The midfielder, a regular in the last three seasons, finds himself in a tricky situation, although there is interest from the likes of Everton.
The Toffees were keen on recruiting Longstaff in the summer but baulked at Newcastle’s £10 million price tag for a player with one year left on his deal. Under the new management of former Magpies boss Rafael Benitez, Everton have been reluctant to spend, with their extensive summer acquisition costing just over £2 million.
The Merseysiders are expected to return in January to negotiate a cut-price deal with Newcastle for Longstaff. Everton remain confident of a move, and if they cannot sign him in the winter window, then a free transfer in the summer reckons.
Frank McAvennie believes Everton should take the opportunity presented due to the regime change over at Newcastle to sign Longstaff, either in January or in the summer. He suggested the midfielder could be a good addition while speaking to Football Insider.
McAvennie said, “I don’t think anyone is safe. I’m sure there have been talks about Longstaff going to Everton before. I know Rafa likes him and who is going to question his signings after the wonders he worked in the summer.”
“I think there is a deal to be done there. It might make sense for the player. He’s not an established first-team player at Newcastle, and he has to look after himself. I think he will be replaced, so that would make it easy for Everton to sign him.”
Longstaff previously played under Benitez when the Spaniard was managing Newcastle United. It os safe to suggest the midfielder played his best football under the Everton boss and may not hesitate over a reunion if a chance presents itself.
