Newcastle United suffer ‘likely’ deadline day blow in search for Jonjo Shelvey replacement

Sander Berge is set to stay at Sheffield United, despite late transfer interest from Fulham and Newcastle United.

The Magpies looked into the possibility of loaning the Norway international for the remainder of the campaign after losing Jonjo Shelvey to Nottingham Forest.

But United have reportedly been dealt a blow with Sky Sports News’ Rob Dorsett claiming Berge is likely to remain at Bramall Lane.

The 24-year-old was left out of his side’s 3-3 draw at Wrexham in the FA Cup on Sunday - and Blades manager Paul Heckingbottom admitted there were talks ongoing with possible suitors for the midfielder.

He said: “I could bore you silly talking about it because there are so many things that can happen. I have been pushing everyone at the club to get clarity. If we lose another player without bringing one in it would be foolish. Foolish.

“We have an opportunity to do something now. If we have to do it we have to do it (sell Berge). There are players there who are ready to go. There have been lots happen that have been bigger problems than this season and we have got on with them.”

Speculation surrounding Berge has since gone quiet, with Fulham pushing ahead with a deal to sign Torino’s Sasa Lukic instead.

And due to Financial Fair Play constraints following Anthony Gordon’s £45million move from Everton, Newcastle were keen on an initial loan with an option to buy in the summer.

Howe, speaking ahead of tonight’s Carabao Cup semi-final against Southampton, said: “I think Jonjo’s situation has come very late in the window and it’s not ideal for us. That wasn’t something we wanted to consider so it’s enabling us to see what else is out there but there’s no guarantee and if it were to shut with Jonjo leaving I would be happy.”

He added: “We will see what we can do in the market to try and bring a player in, there is no guarantee on that as I’ve said with other transfers.

“We will see what we can do, but in terms of permanent signings, that would be difficult but we will look for potentially a loan situation but again it’s got to be the right player.

“We don’t want to just take any player for the sake of it."

Berge trained with the Blades as normal this morning, another suggestion that he will stay for the club’s Championship promotion charge.