Leeds youngster Jack Clarke was mooted as a potential Newcastle summer target, but Tottenham are now said to be keen.
Leeds’ failure to get promoted may see them losing much of their young talent, with Premier League sides ready to swoop.
A number of clubs have been monitoring the 18-year old, with the Magpies being one of those mentioned by TeamTalk.
Any alleged interest is all hypothetical, however. And as soon as a club with more ambition and financial clout are interested, Newcastle are always going to miss out.
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That said, if players like Clarke really want to develop, they need to be given time on the pitch.
As much as players’ agents want to get the best financial package for their clients, it is not always the best deal for their careers.
Will Clarke cement a regular starting spot in the Spurs XI? Probably not.
Would he get that opportunity at a team like Newcastle? Undoubtedly.
Rafa could the best out of Clarke’s talent
Newcastle are known to want to strengthen their options out wide. The teenager would likely have been given the immediate chance to compete with the wingers already at the club.
Added to that, is the fact that he would be guided by Rafa Benitez, world-renowned as being a magnificent coach and mentor.
Therefore, signing for Newcastle would have be a win-win for both parties.
The player would develop his game on the biggest stage, with plenty of fist team opportunities; Newcastle would add a quality talent to the team, and have competition for the position.
Sadly, it is not likely to happen – especially when Newcastle cannot even sort their manager’s position out.
It is another case of ‘what if?’, and is sure to be just the latest in a long line of names that were never a realistic option.