Southampton give Newcastle United transfer warning - £3m stumbling block rears head
Newcastle United have reached an impasse with Ryan Fraser over his proposed move to Southampton
Southampton manager Russell Martin has revealed they could pull out of the race to sign Ryan Fraser.
Newcastle United are locked in negotiations with the winger, who has made it clear he wants out. A bust-up with Eddie Howe saw Fraser, signed by Steve Bruce on a free transfer in 2020, train with the youth setup before being sent on loan last season.
The move was beneficial for all parties, with Fraser winning promotion at Southampton in the play-off final. There was confidence a permanent deal could be struck but, less than two weeks before the Championship kicks off, the 30-year-old remains at St James’ Park.
Fraser’s contract has a year left to run - worth a reported £3million over the course of the season. This has created a stumbling block for Newcastle as Southampton cannot match those ages.
Speaking after beating Montpellier in pre-season, the Saints boss admitted he wants to resign Fraser but may need to shop elsewhere. Martin said: “I think we’re all hopeful that at some point that will happen. Everyone wants him. Me, the fans, the owners, the players, and the staff.
“He would love to return, and indeed, we would love to keep him here. “It’s their (Newcastle’s) prerogative to do what they want with him at the moment, and unfortunately for us, and for Wee Man, it’s not what we want.
“If we can’t agree on a deal with Newcastle, we will have to look at other potential transfers. That’s just the reality of football.”