Newcastle United are reportedly open to selling long-standing midfielder Sean Longstaff this summer, with Premier League sides Everton and Leeds United interested.
Despite the slow start, the Magpies are expected to have a busy summer as Eddie Howe looks to improve his starting XI ahead of a competitive 2025/26 season. However, that does not mean arrivals are the only focus.
Newcastle United will look to sell some of their fringe players this summer, and Sean Longstaff appears to be one player facing the music. Newcastle’s first-team squad is brimming with talent, but Longstaff has found himself out of Howe’s starting XI and wondering what the future holds for him.
It was recently reported that Newcastle have made Longstaff “available”, with his price tag believed to be in the region of £10m. Newcastle’s owners have given Howe the money to spend this summer, but he needs space for those additions.
In a press conference in May, Howe made it clear what he thinks of Longstaff and speculation around his future.
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Eddie Howe is a big fan of Sean Longstaff despite Newcastle United exit rumours
Longstaff has been in the Magpies’ setup since 2006, graduating from the academy in 2018 under Rafa Benitez. It will be an emotional end for Longstaff if this summer is his last on Tyneside, but he leaves the club as a cult hero and a trophy winner.
Longstaff was referred to as “underrated” by Sandro Tonali, but he could be playing against his teammate next season if he were to move to either Everton or Leeds United.
Speaking in a press conference in May, Howe was asked about Longstaff’s future by BBC Sport.
“Sean has a contract for next year, so the control is very much in his hands in terms of what he wants to do with his long-term future,” Howe said.
“But we’re certainly delighted to have him as one of our players.
“I don’t think I have to motivate him. I shouldn’t have to motivate him, he should motivate himself. He’s here representing the club that he loves, so there should be no issue with motivation. He has to be ready to take a chance when it comes.
“I think any train of thought I have to motivate anyone, I can’t do that with 25 players. Sean is motivated. He’s been brilliant behind the scenes and he is training well. He’s got undoubted qualities.”
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Eddie Howe suggests Sean Longstaff will decide his own future
Howe’s words towards Longstaff are undeniably flattering, but it does not rubberstamp that he is staying with Newcastle next season. The Newcastle manager has left his comments open to interpretation, but they appear to suggest that he will not be pushed out of the door at St James’ Park this summer.
The 27-year-old will decide his own future this summer, that is according to Howe, who appears happy with either outcome.
Longstaff has already said he is happy to stay at Newcastle, but he wants to be at a club where he feels valued. The midfielder lost his place in the starting XI during the 2024/25 campaign and was not able to win it back, so a move elsewhere may be the best outcome for him.
Despite the links, Everton fans do not want to sign Longstaff, with many feeling like he is not worth his £10m price tag. As it stands, Longstaff has another year left on his deal, so he will likely take his time when it comes to deciding his future.
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