Newcastle United failed to replace Jonjo Shelvey when he left in January 2023, but they certainly tried.
The midfielder’s Newcastle United career came to an end two-and-a-half years ago, with Nottingham Forest swooping in to sign the England international.
It was a massive blow to lose Jonjo Shelvey, as he was such an important player at St James’ Park. Eddie Howe was sad to see Shelvey go, but understood why he chose to take his talents elsewhere.
Newcastle tried to replace Jonjo Shelvey
But as Newcastle braced themselves for Shelvey’s departure, they began the search for a replacement.
And the search led them to Sander Berge, who was playing for Sheffield United at the time.
Newcastle United were interested in signing Berge from the Blades, with Toon officials keen to bring the Norway international in on loan with a view to a permanent deal.
In the end, Berge remained at Bramall Lane as the 2023 January transfer window slammed shut. He had to wait a few more months to depart, with Burnley signing him for £12million that summer.
Sander Berge is now wanted by Manchester United
Fast forward 12 months and Berge could be on the move again.
According to Sky Sports, Manchester United have held talks with Burnley about a deal for Berge.
They report that the player wants to join Erik ten Hag’s side, which is no surprise. It is a simple choice for Berge, who is currently preparing for a season in the Championship with the Clarets after suffering relegation from the Premier League.
Dan Ashworth looking at a former Newcastle target
It is a surprise to see Manchester United show an interest in Berge.
If they are able to agree a deal, it would mean Dan Ashworth has done something at Old Trafford that he failed to do at St James’ Park.
Ashworth was unable to bring Berge to Newcastle United at the beginning of last year, as the Magpies failed to sign an immediate replacement for Shelvey.
Newcastle went on to sign Sandro Tonali instead
Instead, Newcastle waited a few months to bring in a midfielder. The Magpies signed Sandro Tonali the following summer, with the Italy international costing £55million from AC Milan. He became Newcastle’s second most expensive signing ever.
Tonali was immediately given the number eight shirt, that had been worn by Shelvey and then Anthony Gordon.
Getting Tonali meant it was worth waiting to land a new midfielder, and Newcastle did not suffer following their inability to sign Berge. However, Ashworth’s deal for Tonali did inevitably receive criticism once the 24-year-old received a 10-month ban for betting.
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