Newcastle United news outlet The Geordie Boys are claiming West Ham could be about to scupper the Toon’s bid for Liverpool’s Harvey Elliott.
Eddie Howe’s Magpies are one of a handful of clubs rumoured to be interested in the Anfield playmaker. Elliott has caught the eye of clubs at home and across Europe with his impressive displays for Lee Carsley’s England Under-21 European champions.
Liverpool are believed to be open to selling Elliott – albeit with a £50m buyback clause – and Newcastle are said to be firmly in the mix. But surprisingly it would appear the Toon have a irrational case of the jitters, believing David Sullivan is about to outbid their Saudi owners.
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If we’re honest, St James’ Park does sound like a more realistic destination for a young player whose stock is rising. And as ridiculous as it sounds, there seems to be genuine concern in the North East that West Ham could derail their plans.
Graham Potter is known to be pushing the Hammers board to go all-out for the 22-year-old, who started his career at Fulham.
Graham Potter faces a tough task to beat Newcastle to the signing of Elliott
Whether West Ham can genuinely compete with Newcastle’s oil riches is highly doubtful. But perhaps Potter can offer the temptation of guaranteed first-team football – something neither Arne Slot nor Eddie Howe can promise.
Probably just wishful thinking on my part. Let’s be honest, the biggest stumbling block is likely to be the £40m price tag for the talented Anfield attacker.