Newcastle United have an advantage when it comes to signing Declan Rice.

Declan Rice is a name everyone’s been hearing a lot of recently, mainly because of his transfer links to (*deep breath*) Arsenal, Bayern Munich, Manchester City, Manchester United, Liverpool and Newcastle United.

After helping West Ham win their first trophy in 58 years, it’s been all but confirmed the midfielder will be leaving the Hammers this summer. West Ham chairman, David Sullivan, said he was “99%” sure the 24-year-old would exit the club.

Despite rumours suggesting the preferred destination for the England international is Arsenal, yesterday it was reported Newcastle will make a move for the player. Whilst the Magpies know there will be major obstacles in their way to land Rice, they’re willing to try.

But they could have help in the form of Sean Longstaff.

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Longstaff has recently opened up about his friendship with Rice, mentioning the pair are close in spite of never playing on the same team. The Geordie is yet to receive his first England call-up, so many would have thought Rice would have been closer to the likes of Nick Pope, Callum Wilson and Kieran Trippier.

“I actually get on really well with Dec - we still speak quite a lot actually,” said Longstaff speaking to Newcastle United. “He was probably one of the first people to text me after the game and ask how I was. I’ve got massive respect for him and what he’s gone on to achieve. Everybody’s journeys are different.”

It’s thought West Ham are looking for over £100 million for their skipper which would be a stretch considering reports say Newcastle only plan on spending around £150 million. But many believe Rice would be the perfect fit for Eddie Howe’s side and with connections on the inside, who knows? Newcastle could oversee a summer hijack.