Newcastle transfer news: Sander Berge could replace Jonjo Shelvey

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Jonjo Shelvey is on the brink of leaving Newcastle United, and he could reportedly be replaced by Sheffield United midfielder Sander Berge.

Sunday evening brought news that Shelvey could be on his way to Nottingham Forest before Tuesday night’s transfer deadline, seven years after he arrived at St James’ Park.

The Telegraph report that the 30-year-old is keen to make the move to the City Ground, and looks set to have a medical on Monday.

It would be a huge shock to see Shelvey leave the club. It was only last week that Eddie Howe rubbished talk of him being sold amid interest from Turkey.

But now it appears that Shelvey’s time on Tyneside is over, with a move to Nottingham Forest imminent. A deal will leave Newcastle incredibly light in midfield, and Dan Ashworth is now on the lookout for a replacement.

Newcastle interested in Sander Berge

According to the Daily Mail, Newcastle are looking into the possibility of signing Berge from Sheffield United. The Magpies reportedly only want a loan deal for the 24-year-old, who has been with the Blades since January 2020.

He cost Sheffield United £22million three years ago, and could now be on the move back to the Premier League after suffering relegation to the Championship in 2021.

A short-term deal for the Norwegian could be ideal for Howe. He needs another midfielder, but there probably isn’t time to splash out and bring in one of the club’s top targets.

Therefore, a six-month loan for Berge could fit the bill. He could even thrive in the North East and prove to be a cheaper option. He certainly has the right profile, and has his best years ahead of him at 24.

Berge is a strong passer of the ball, and capable of progressing the ball up the pitch from deep. In the words of former Blades boss Chris Wilder, he is the ‘complete‘ midfielder.

He would be a good replacement for Shelvey, who is 30 and in the final six months of his contract. While it will be sad to see him go, it gets him off the wage bill and we receive some money for him. Sentiment aside, it’s great business.