Sean Longstaff joined Leeds United from boyhood club Newcastle United this summer, having come through the ranks on Tyneside.
The 6’2″ midfielder featured as a starter in just 12 games in all competitions for Newcastle last season, with Leeds United swooping in to add more physicality and intensity to their midfield ranks.
Like many others this summer, Longstaff’s physical profile will suit Leeds. The former Newcastle midfielder was first linked to Leeds back in March 2024 but a deal has finally been struck in June 2025 with Longstaff penning a four-year deal at Elland Road.
It’s a bittersweet feeling for Longstaff to leave his boyhood club, having been with them since the age of nine. However, his game time under Eddie Howe was dwindling and a fresh start should mean regular football.
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Sean Longstaff explains Karl Darlow’s role in transitioning to Leeds from Newcastle
He was well thought of in the north east, as Sandro Tonali believes Longstaff is underrated but it is a former Newcastle teammate that helped convince the 27-year-old midfielder of an Elland Road switch, with Karl Darlow explaining Leeds as a club to Longstaff.
Obviously, Darlow. Talked to Darlow straight away,” he said when asked who he had met at the club. But I’ve gotten to meet everyone, it seems like a really good group.
“I’ve heard great things Obviously, I spoke to Karl a lot about the team and the club, and he said: ‘There’s nothing but good things about the group and you’ll absolutely love it.’
“For me, you just want to settle in as quick as possible. I think everyone’s sort of been really nice. It’s a small world, football, so everyone will know someone. It’s a great way to meet everyone and get to know them a bit better and end up on the pitch together.”
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He has since spoken via TNT Sports (Discovery+) about Darlow further and how the pair have a bromance growing at Thorp Arch.
Longstaff explained: “He’s a bit of a comfort blanket and everyone laughs that I never leave him alone. To be honest, at the start, I won’t be leaving him alone.”
Interviewer: “Did he save you a seat, then? First day?
Longstaff added: “No, the lads were all laughing saying he’s going to kick everyone out their seats, just so I can get next to him.
“I’ll just follow him around for a bit, but we’ll sit separate for now.”
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Sean Longstaff’s father also played a huge role in joining Leeds from Newcastle
Longstaff has already been handed the number-eight shirt, it seems. It signifies that he will be a key component of Leeds’ team next term, even if they have a number of options in their engine room.
Speaking to Michael Bridges upon signing, Longstaff explained his dad’s impact on sealing the move from Newcastle to West Yorkshire.
He said: “To be honest, I think he’s really excited for us. He said the best thing he’s ever done in his career was moving away from home and coming out of your comfort zone.
“I think he wanted us to do it for a little while, to be honest. I think he’s happy that I’ve done it and I think he’s hoping that it can bring the best out of me — and I’m hoping the same thing.
“As long as we’re playing and happy, I think we’re always happy. He’s looking forward to watching us all the time.”