Newcastle United’s dream of signing Jack Harrison in January could be over with the winger in line for a new contract at Leeds United.
That is according to TeamTalk, who claim that there is confidence that the 26-year-old will soon extend his stay at Elland Road.
Harrison’s current deal is set to expire in the summer of 2024, meaning Leeds were becoming increasingly vulnerable to losing one of their star players.
He was a major target for Newcastle during the summer transfer window, with Eddie Howe very keen to bring Harrison to St James’ Park as the solution to his winger problem.
However, a move failed to materialise. The Magpies did make multiple bids for him, but Leeds said no.
Sporting Director Dan Ashworth did offer more than £20million in August, but it still wasn’t enough to secure his services. Instead, Leeds wanted £35million, which was deemed too much by the Magpies.
But Harrison has continued to be linked with Newcastle. The Northern Echo claimed in September that he would feature high on Howe’s list of January targets, while 90min added that United remained interested in the former Manchester City ace.
His contract situation looked like it could possibly lead to Newcastle getting their man, but now it appears that a new deal is on the horizon.
‘Magnificent’ Jack Harrison likely to sign new Leeds contract
TeamTalk claim that Harrison is now close to extending his contract with Jesse Marsch’s side.
On the subject, Graeme Bailey told TeamTalk: “And I understand a new deal [for Harrison] is firmly on Victor Orta’s agenda. The good news is there is a real confidence that Harrison will put pen to paper sooner rather than later.”
So it sounds like the only way Newcastle will sign Harrison in January is if that confidence is misplaced.
Of course, the Magpies could still bid for him, but the security of a longer contract would allow Leeds to demand even more money for a player who was described as ‘magnificent‘ by Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink earlier this season.
That came after Harrison scored a goal and provided a wonderful assist in a win for Leeds over Chelsea. Interestingly, that was the last time he got a goal contribution.
Harrison started the season on fire, getting three assists and a goal in the opening three games. However, it has been much tougher since then.
He hasn’t been able to have the same impact in the final third, while his side sit just two points above the relegation zone.
But he still would have been a smart addition for Newcastle, so it is a big shame that he is seemingly set to sign a new contract with Leeds.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
