Manchester United are set to submit an opening bid for Sean Longstaff in the ‘next 48 hours’ according to the Telegraph.
John Percy’s piece late last night also reveals that Longstaff has been named as one of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s ‘top summer targets’ – insisting that the interest is ‘genuine’.
As you’d expect, the story states that Rafa Benitez is reluctant to lose Longstaff, but claims that ‘developments’ are expected over the coming days – suggesting a bid to test Mike Ashley’s resolve is imminent.
Here’s a snippet from the Telegraph’s piece:
‘United are also set to make an offer for Longstaff in the next 48 hours, in a move which will place further strain on Rafael Benitez’s relationship with the Newcastle hierarchy.
‘Longstaff has only made 12 appearances in all competitions for the club but his performances have impressed United coaching staff sufficiently enough to make him a top summer target.
‘He missed the final two months of the campaign with an ankle injury but is expected to be fit for the start of pre-season.
‘Benitez would be reluctant to lose the midfielder but United’s interest is genuine and developments are expected over the next few days.’
The same piece also confirms that Man Utd have opened talks with Swansea over a £15m deal for Daniel James – the 21-year-old winger who was confirmed as a target of ours by the Chronicle just a few weeks ago.
Man Utd’s interest in Longstaff was reported by Sky Sports last week, but club sources immediately stressed that he was NOT for sale.
It will be interesting (and extremely worrying given Ashley’s history!) to see how we respond if and when a big money bid arrives from Old Trafford.
If we’re serious about backing Benitez and showing ambition Sean Longstaff must be kept at Newcastle United – end of.
£275m
Sean(Quote)