‘I’d like him’: Manager admits he’d love to sign £12m player off Newcastle in January

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Portsmouth manager Danny Cowley says he believes Newcastle United midfielder Matt Ritchie will finish his career at the League One club.

That’s what’s reported in The News, after talks of a Fratton Park homecoming have increased in recent months.

According to transfer insider Dean Jones, the 33-year-old has now been told by Magpies boss Eddie Howe that he is free to leave the club in January.

This was always a likely scenario, with the former Scotland international out of contract at the end of the season.

Back in 2020, Ritchie told The News that he has unfinished business with Pompey, having left the club on a permanent deal in 2011 after making just 10 appearances.

Speaking of the possibility of Ritchie returning to Fratton Park, Cowley has claimed he would love to have the Toon player in his squad.

“I’d like him, is that possible?” he said.

“Well, we’d love to have Matt Ritchie.

“I’m not sure we’d be able to cover his wages coming to Portsmouth, though!

“That said, he loves the club and he’s been to a couple of games with his boys.

“We’d like him – I think our expected goals would go up then and there will be no moaning about set-pieces!

“I do think he will finish his career at Portsmouth, though.”

Ritchie could join Portsmouth

Having arrived at St James’ Park in 2016 after Newcastle completed a £12m deal with Bournemouth, Ritchie has been a brilliant servant of the Tyneside club.

Upon his arrival, he was excellent in the Championship; having helped the side to Premier League promotion.

Furthermore, he has always been more than happy to play wherever the manager needs him to. Under Rafa Benitez, the midfielder proved to be a reliable left wing-back for the Magpies.

As a result, he has always encapsulated that heart and passion that is most loved at St James’ Park.

Having made just two appearances this season, it isn’t likely we’ll see Ritchie grace the pitch in a black and white shirt many more times before he leaves the club for good.

However, having amassed 190 appearances for the Toon, the 33-year-old will be forever appreciated for his efforts on Tyneside.

Therefore, if the possibility of returning to his boyhood club is there in January, Newcastle fans will be sure to wish him well as he looks to join Portsmouth.