Newcastle United’s hopes of signing in-form Brighton winger Solly March in the near future look bleak, with the 28-year-old putting pen to paper on a new deal until 2026 at the Amex Stadium.
According to a report from Football Insider, Newcastle United have been dealt a major blow in their pursuit of Brighton & Hove Albion attacker Solly March. The Englishman has signed a contract extension until 2026, leaving Newcastle’s chase dead in the water.
The Brighton ace has been making headlines and raising eyebrows in recent months. And for all the right reasons. He is one of several Brighton stars enjoying a spectacular season so far as the Seagulls have emerged as unlikely top-four candidates in the Premier League. Roberto De Zerbi’s side are only seven points adrift of fourth-placed Tottenham, but with three matches in hand.
The Italian head coach has brought March out of his goalscoring shell and into the most productive season of his career. The 28-year-old is having his most productive season yet, amassing seven goals and four assists in all competitions this season.
From 55 appearances without a goal across almost two years to bulging the net six times in the Premier League since the World Cup break, including last midweek’s match-winner in the M23 derby over Crystal Palace, March is in the form of his life. And it is fair to say that he is catching the eye of some other top clubs.
Recent reports have claimed that Newcastle United are keeping tabs on the 28-year-old winger. Eddie Howe is a big admirer of the player’s talent, versatility, and attitude. Meanwhile, Toon sporting director Dan Ashworth, who has worked with March in the past at Brighton, is also keen.
However, the report adds that the Tynesiders will find it ‘incredibly hard’ to agree to a deal after Brighton confirmed they have tied March down to a new contract. The attacker is now under contract on the south coast until 2026, with an option to extend for a further year.
March’s biggest problem has been one of his strengths in recent years. His versatility ensured Graham Potter employed him all over the pitch, in the left side of the defence, and sometimes on either flank as a full-back without any real rhythm or regularity. He is now flying in his natural position and has the freedom to attack under De Zerbi.
With veteran winger Matt Ritchie soon to be a free agent and likely leave the club, and Ryan Fraser set to be shown the exit door come summer after falling out of favour with Howe, it is easy to see why Newcastle are head hunting for a bit of a traditional workmanlike winger given they already have Miguel Almiron and Allan Saint-Maximin in their ranks, both of whom are not good crossers of the ball.
March not only fits the bill, he is exactly the sort of player and character one could see playing under Howe. But stealing him away from Brighton is now a tricky task after his contract extension. And Newcastle will either have to pay over the top or realign their radars to other targets.
