It seems as though Sean Longstaff joining Leeds United has come to a halt.
With Newcastle United ready to sell, and the 49ers ready to buy, Longstaff could’ve joined Leeds before the weekend.
The midfielder is proving difficult to sign after Newcastle rejected a third bid of £12m from Leeds, and the 49ers don’t want to be bullied by this deal.
It’s been said that Leeds aren’t far away from a Longstaff deal, but it’s whether the owners want to take the risk of overpaying.
Well, Leeds have now been told they’ve actually been lowballing Newcastle, and they must pay up for Longstaff.
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Leeds United told they’re lowballing Newcastle for Sean Longstaff
With the 27-year-old enduring a solid tenure in Eddie Howe’s plan, it seems right for him to finally move on.
The midfielder will clearly be seeking a more leading role in a team, and Daniel Farke’s side presents the perfect opportunity.
Longstaff has shown his ability in the Premier League, which Leeds will like as he’s shown it throughout his last seven seasons, and he can also show his worth in other competitions as well.
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But gaining someone of his experience is what could make the deal more expensive, as Leeds’ transfer plan isn’t working to a tee.
Longstaff has been dubbed ‘incredible’ and would be an improvement in the current Leeds side, and that’s why former Magpies defender John Anderson has said to BBC Radio Newcastle that Leeds need to pay a higher fee.
“He needs the move because he needs to be playing football,” Anderson said.
“Everyone knows that Newcastle’s midfield three picks itself now, but the deal has got to be right.
“You can’t let sentiment get in the way because if you want to progress and move forward, then these decisions have to be made.
“I think Leeds’ offer of £12m is too low and he is worth at least £15m if not more because of the experience he brings.”
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Leeds have to move on from Longstaff if £15m bid is rejected
With it looking like the Whites hierarchy will have no choice but to pay up, the 49ers need to stamp their foot down.
To see four bids come in for a player is excessive in itself, but Leeds need to make sure they don’t overpay for Longstaff.
Although he does come with a box-crashing profile from midfield, which would help Leeds in the Premier League, £15m is the max, and his experience shouldn’t be judged too much in the deal.
There is a possibility that Leeds could sign Anton Stach and Longstaff, but it wouldn’t be a possibility if the Whites pay over the odds for the Newcastle star.