OPINION
Newcastle are reportedly interested in trying to sign Chelsea ace Ruben Loftus-Cheek but Aston Villa must beat them to the punch as Steve Bruce searches for a fifth career promotion.
The Daily Mail has suggested that Newcastle have identified the 21-year-old as a possible third summer signing, after completing deals for defender Florian Lejeune and a permanent move for Christian Atsu.
England Under-21 international Loftus-Cheek is on the hunt for regular first-team football but is fully aware that he will not receive that under Antonio Conte, after making just six Premier League appearances.
It is said that Chelsea have loan listed the playmaker, as he sits behind the likes of Cesc Fabregas, Willian, Eden Hazard and Pedro in Conte’s attacking-midfield pecking order.
However, This Is Futbol believes Aston Villa should look to rival Newcastle by luring Loftus-Cheek to the Midlands after completing the signing of Chelsea legend John Terry earlier this month.