Newcastle United outcast ‘wanted’ by Leeds United told the ‘wise move’ to make

Joining Celtic would be a “wise move” for Newcastle United outcast Ryan Fraser. That’s according to former Wales international John Hartson, who scored 95 goals in 178 appearances for The Hoops between 2001 and 2006.

The Magpies are looking to offload Fraser this summer after falling out with Eddie Howe earlier this year. The Scotland international last played for United in October and spent the second half of last season training with the club’s under-21s.

Fraser’s absence has continued into the start of this season. He didn’t feature in any of the pre-season games and has been stripped of his squad number with new signing Tino Livramento taking No.21 shirt.

The 29-year-old has attracted interest from Championship clubs, including Leeds United, but Celtic are reportedly the latest team to launch an enquiry. A potential move north of the border is fully backed by Hartson.

“He is a good player, “ the former West Ham and Arsenal striker told Go Radio. “He’s not played regularly of late, his game time has become not as much as he would have wanted. I am not too sure if he is in Howe’s plans. Newcastle are looking at the top-end market.

“I think Ryan Fraser is a talent and joining Celtic would be a very wise move because he has a lot to prove as well.”

Newcastle are willing to let Fraser go for next to nothing but his reported £70,000-a-week wages is a stumbling block for potential suitors. Fraser currently has two years left on the contract he signed in 2020 when he arrived as a free agent from Bournemouth.

“Newcastle almost want to give him away and get him off the wage bill so they can move on and look to invest in another player,” Hartson added.

“It’s just whether or not Celtic want to take on Ryan Fraser. You there mentioned 30,000-a -week, that is almost up there with the top earners.

“Ryan Fraser has been a very good player. I thought he lit the Premier League up at times when at Bournemouth. It’s interesting he’s not really done it for him at Newcastle.”

As well as Fraser, United are also hoping to find new clubs for Jeff Hendrick and Isaac Hayden, who spent last on loan at Reading and Norwich City, respectively.