Newcastle United ‘walk away’ from £34m midfielder transfer after manager bust-up

Newcastle United Pull Out of Midfield Pursuit Amid Uncertainty Over Longstaff’s Future

Newcastle United have reportedly backed away from pursuing the signing of a new midfielder, as speculation surrounding their summer transfer plans continues to swirl. The Magpies had been exploring several midfield options in recent weeks, but it now appears they have “walked away” from at least one potential deal, according to reports.

Midfield reinforcements had been a priority for Newcastle this transfer window, especially with growing uncertainty surrounding the future of academy graduate Sean Longstaff. The 27-year-old, who has found consistent first-team opportunities hard to come by, was the subject of a £12 million bid from Leeds United earlier this week. However, Newcastle swiftly rejected the offer, signaling they are not prepared to let him go on the cheap despite his reduced role in Eddie Howe’s squad.

Longstaff, once a regular in the starting XI, has not featured in the Premier League since December, struggling to break into a highly competitive midfield setup. The preferred trio of Sandro Tonali, Bruno Guimarães, and Joelinton has firmly established itself as one of the strongest in the division, leaving little room for rotation. While Longstaff remains a valuable squad player, the club may still consider parting ways with him if a more attractive offer arrives.

Meanwhile, the uncertainty surrounding Longstaff isn’t the only midfield storyline at St. James’ Park this summer. Fellow midfielder Joe Willock has also drawn attention, with Premier League rivals Crystal Palace and Fulham reportedly expressing interest. Willock, who has battled injuries and inconsistencies, remains a potential outgoing if the right offer is tabled.

In terms of possible arrivals, Newcastle have been credited with an interest in a number of emerging talents. Manchester City’s James McAtee and Coventry City’s Jack Rudoni are both said to be on the club’s radar. However, despite the links, Newcastle have yet to make a formal approach for either player. Their hesitance may now be attributed to a reassessment of priorities or shifting budget constraints following recent moves in other areas of the squad.

Adding further intrigue, reports from Portugal this week indicated that Newcastle were monitoring another midfield prospect from the Portuguese league. However, new developments suggest that the Magpies have decided not to pursue that deal any further. The identity of the player remains undisclosed, but the decision to walk away could be tied to financial demands, player preferences, or tactical fit.

With the transfer window still open and plenty of time remaining for movement, Newcastle’s midfield situation remains fluid. Whether they reignite interest in a new signing or place renewed faith in their current options will likely depend on potential outgoings—particularly involving Longstaff and Willock.

For now, though, Newcastle appear to be taking a cautious approach, focused on maintaining balance in their squad while navigating a summer filled with both ambition and uncertainty.