Newcastle United’s interest in Leeds United youngster Charlie Taylor is in vain.
That’s the view of the Whites manager, Garry Monk. The 22 year-old has been attracting a lot of attention but Monk told the Yorkshire Evening Post:
For sure, 100 per cent. He has to be here. Charlie’s been great, he’s been fantastic in training and he’s very focused on what we’re doing. That’s not a problem.
There’s no worries about it from my side and it’s business as usual. Charlie’s a big important part of what I’m doing.
The Guardian reported that Rafa Benitez was monitoring the situation. It’s not hard to see why with Taylor voted Leeds United’s Player of the Season for 2015/16.
Mainly a left back, Taylor can also play further up the pitch which could prove useful and provide us with a bit more depth if Wijnaldum leaves.
With one year to go on his contract, the fee now would be lower than we might expect to pay but with competition from Premier League sides West Brom, Burnley and Middlesbrough amongst others, Rafa would need to be at his persuasive best to bring Taylor to the Magpies.