Newcastle United stalwart linked with ‘cut-price’ Leeds United switch as contract talks remain deadlocked

Leeds United are set to renew their interest in Sean Longstaff this summer, according to reports.

There were suggestions in January that the Whites were weighing up a move for the midfielder. Newcastle United, amid a crippling injury crisis, insisted Longstaff was not for sale.

That stance could change at the end of the season once the Toon treatment table is cleared. Longstaff’s contract situation also remains a concern, with his current deal running out in just over 12 months.

Newcastle are understood to prefer keeping the midfielder but now might be the ideal time to cash in - or risk losing him for nothing. As an academy product, Longstaff holds zero book value for the Magpies so any sale would generate pure profit.

Sandro Tonali, Joe Willock and Joelinton will be back in contention next season. With Elliot Anderson and Lewis Miley breaking through the ranks, Longstaff’s future appears uncertain.

His next destination could depend on which sides secure Premier League promotion. The Mirror claim Leeds are interested but also name title rivals Leicester City as potential suitors.

Both clubs are fighting to regain their top-flight status after succumbing to relegation last year. Eddie Howe rates Longstaff highly but his hands may be tied when aiming to create financial wriggle room for incomings.

A cut-price fee of around £15million has been touted given the 26-year-old's contract situation. News about Longstaff's possible exit comes weeks after his brother, Matty, who recovered on Tyneside from a knee injury despite no longer playing for Newcastle, joined MLS outfit Toronto FC.