Georginio Wijnaldum has instructed his agent to begin searching for a new club, following Newcastle’s relegation to the Championship.
Wijnaldum’s dramatic U-turn will come as a surprise to Newcastle fans as recent reports had suggested that the Dutch international would stay to aid the club’s fight for promotion next season.
Premier League duo Everton and West Ham are both reportedly monitoring Wijnaldum’s situation, but it is Serie A side AS Roma who apparently leading the race for his signature.
Rafa Benitez is still in full control and will not be forced into selling his players cheaply this summer, having been given assurances for the club, but is aware that ‘some departures will be inevitable’.
The Chronicle claim that Newcastle are looking for a price ‘in excess of £20million’, which may deter potential bidders, although it could be that they are willing to negotiate a lower price if the player does push for a move.
