Newcastle Chronicle journalist Lee Ryder has said that the absence of a release clause and ongoing talks with Rafael Benitez will help the Magpies in their efforts to keep hold of Sean Longstaff.
According to the Telegraph, United were expected to bid for the 21-year-old this week as part of a squad overhaul by Red Devils boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
However, another report from the Daily Star said that the midfielder was set to stay at St James’ Park by signing a contract extension.
Writing in a column for the Chronicle, Ryder said that in any case, Newcastle have the upper hand in the battle to dissuade other clubs from taking Longstaff away.
“With no release clause in his contract Newcastle find themselves in a strong position on Longstaff and insist he’s not for sale,” the reliable journalist wrote.
“There is talk about a new improved contract for Longstaff but no negotiations have taken place since the end of the season.
“Man United also face an awkward wait to see what the outcome of talks with Benitez will be. The Spaniard currently has the final say on all transfer activity until June 30.
“This is tightly written into his contract and this could make life difficult for Man United as they want a quick deal.
“Should Benitez stay, and maintain the final say clause in his contract , he is likely to want to hold on to Longstaff – especially if he is uncertain incoming funds won’t come his way.”
OPINION
This report is definitely going to please the Newcastle fans, Longstaff is a player who they would desperately want to keep hold of this season. It’s a real shame that an injury cut short his breakthrough season, because, since making his debut, he has put in excellent performances for the Magpies. One that will stand out to Magpies fans is the one against Manchester City, when Benitez’s side defeated the reigning champions 2-1 to cast doubt over their title challenge. As regards Longstaff’s future, there is no doubt that the fact that there is no release clause will definitely give Newcastle the upper hand in negotiations; it will allow them to set a price without being bound by the threat of one offer being enough to see him go. What’s more, Benitez staying would give the club another huge boost, since he currently has the final say on whether players leave. If the Spaniard was to go, that guarantee would not be there, and that would be a massive worry for the Magpies.