Latest developments
- Leeds United are considering a move for Sean Longstaff.
- The newly-promoted side want reinforcements ahead of their Premier League return.
- Longstaff could leave Newcastle United in search of regular game time.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (3/5): Leeds considering Longstaff
Leeds have reportedly identified Newcastle's Longstaff as a potential target for the summer transfer window.
That is according to inews, who do not provide any real detail over Leeds' pursuit of the Newcastle midfielder.
Value (3.5/5): Potential for bargain deal
According to Transfermarkt, Longstaff's current market value is €22m (£18.7m), although Leeds may sense a chance to negotiate a lower fee due to the player's contract situation.
The 27-year-old is set to enter the final 12 months of his Newcastle contract, meaning the summer transfer window could be the final chance for the Magpies to receive a meaningful fee for their academy product.
Suitability (3.5/5): Wealth of experience
Having made 170 Premier League appearances during his career, Longstaff would add valuable top-flight experience to a Leeds side that will be determined to avoid an immediate return to the Championship following their promotion-winning campaign.
With that said, there may be some concern that Longstaff has found regular game time hard to come by this season.
Upgrade? (3.5/5): Tanaka partner
Leeds could view Longstaff as a suitable candidate to play alongside Ao Tanaka in the Leeds midfield. With that said, Longstaff would have to prove that he is deserving of a starting spot over Ilia Gruev, and potentially Joe Rothwell if Leeds decide to pursue a permanent move for the Bournemouth loanee.
Logic (4/5): Search for regular game time
Longstaff may find it difficult to leave his boyhood club, but he will be aware that he needs to move on to gain regular minutes, having started just eight of his 28 Premier League appearances this season.
Whisper+ verdict: 17.5/25
With Longstaff likely to be available at a bargain price, this could be a low-risk move for Leeds to recruit a midfielder with a wealth of Premier League experience, even if he has struggled for playing time in recent times.
